Fundraising for the Bannon and Shears Trust Fund

24^th May 2010

JERSEY FIRE AND RESCUE FUNDRAISING EVENT

The Royal Yacht are proud to announce the huge success of its fundraising event for the Bannon and Shears Trust Fund in association with the Jersey Fire & Rescue service, held in The Drift on Saturday, 15th May 2010.

The event was held in memory of fire-fighters James Shears and Alan Bannon, who tragically lost their lives whilst tackling a fire at Shirley Towers in Church Street, Shirley, Southampton. Aged just 35 and 38 respectively, the tragedy brought home the daily dangers faced by the brave members of every fire-force across the nation, albeit the world, who seek to save lives whilst putting their own in peril. Both fire-fighters were members of Red Watch at St Mary’s Fire Station, Southampton, which trains with both the Jersey and Guernsey fire crews.

The fundraising evening at The Drift was kindly supported by one of Jersey’s finest new bands, Revolver, who played to a packed audience. Lead singer of the Band, Adam Fowler remarked on how delighted Revolver were to be involved in raising money for such a worthy cause. With the family members of the deceased also present during the evening, the sentiment behind the event was one of celebration – celebration of the lives of Shears and Bannon, commemoration of their heroism and acknowledgement of the importance of the fire services.

Members of The Royal Yacht staff were on hand to collect donations from party-goers, who gave generously. The night raised a total of £1,500, which included a substantial contribution from the Hotel. Over the entire weekend, which comprised of such other fundraising activities as a football match, £6,500 was raised, with the help of the Hampshire fire service’s active involvement. All money went to the Bannon and Shears Trust Fund, the beneficiaries of which are the families of the deceased.

The rescue mission to Shirley Towers was mobilised immediately in response to reports of a fire in the upper floor of the block of flats at 20.14 on Tuesday, 6th April. A total of twenty fire appliances and supporting vehicles from across the county were involved in extinguishing the flames. As testament to the fire service’s commitment and resolution, every resident was successfully rescued and evacuated by those at the scene. The incredible show of courage and heroism by Shears and Bannon, as well as by the other fire-fighters involved, cannot help but leave people feeling inspired.

The Royal Yacht would like to thank everyone involved in the evening. A fun night was undoubtedly had by all whilst honouring the deaths of two extremely brave men and raising money for those they left behind.

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