A BRITISH Armed Forces charity, The Not Forgotten, brought their 'Anyone For Tea' tour to the Waitrose car park in Hexham.
On Tuesday, June 21, the tour bus brought tea to Hexham.
The 10-day tour aims to raise awareness of the charity's work bringing entertainment, cheer and chat to UK veterans, serving personnel, their friends and families.
A specially liveried double decker bus served tea and cake.
The Mayor of Hexham, Councillor Derek Kennedy, attended to lend his support and met local veterans and residents.
Derek Kennedy said: "I was so happy to join the veterans charity and welcome them to Hexham.
"The charity provides a great support to those who have served their country and our thanks go to Waitrose for their support also. I met a service man who had lost both his legs and the charity has helped him through some dark times."
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Blind veteran Ernie was the first customer of the day, and some volunteers travelled for more than two hours to join in the celebrations and lend a helping hand.
Annie Riley entertained the troops and Waitrose customers, singing a varied set including popular classic hits from across The Queen's reigning years.
Rosie Thompson MBE, Head of Events at The Not Forgotten, said: "We were thrilled to launch the 'Anyone For Tea' Tour Bus and couldn't have done this without the sponsorship and assistance of Waitrose."
The tour is sponsored by 11 local Waitrose stores and sees the 'Anyone For Tea' bus pull up at other easily accessible Waitrose car parks, at locations from Cornwall to Glasgow.
Rosie added: "We're delighted to have Waitrose onboard and it was fantastic to welcome so many veterans of all ages as well as their friends and families to share in the celebrations."
Founded 102 years ago, The Not Forgotten provides entertainment and recreation, including social activities and challenge holidays, for wounded, sick and injured service personnel and veterans.
It also aims to improve physical and mental health, address isolation and loneliness, and promote a sense of community and balance.
Sarah Collins, Team Manager of Partner Operations at Waitrose, commented: "We are delighted to sponsor this important event which celebrates The Platinum Jubilee and the UK's veterans who make up such a valuable part of our community.
"Our Partners are all looking forwarding to welcoming customers and those within our regional communities to what is bound to be a fantastic and fun-filled Tour."
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