A Shropshire event will delve into the extraordinary life of a former Telford schoolboy now in charge of major Royal events such as King Charles’ Coronation.
Andrew (Vern) Stokes OBE, MVO, DL (pictured) will be the focus of an evening at Shrewsbury School, with Shropshire’s Lord Lieutenant Anna Turner interviewing him on stage. Vern grew up in Madeley before enlisting in the army aged 16. After operational tours around the world, including in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan, he trained countless soldiers at Sandhurst and was promoted to the rank of Major.
For the past ten years, he has been Garrison Sergeant Major – responsible for all state events such as the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and VE Day celebrations. Highly decorated, Vern has a Meritorious Service Medal, an OBE and even a BAFTA.
Having never forgotten his roots, Vern is also Patron of 4 All Foundation – a charity which provides community programmes and activities across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and the surrounding areas. The event on 30th October has been organised by 4 All, with all proceeds going to support the charity’s work.
Gemma Hargreaves, 4 All’s Corporate and Events Engagement Officer, said: “We have no doubt this event will be highly popular. There is something for everyone – fans of the Royal family or those interested in life in the British Army will no doubt be fascinated by the true stories of Vern’s career. And for anyone seeking inspiration about how much can be achieved with hard work and dedication, his journey from Madeley to Major is truly extraordinary.
“We are really looking forward to hearing from our Patron, and we know Lord Lieutenant Anna Turner will ask insightful questions which will enable Vern to share some fantastic stories with the audience.”
The event will take place from 7pm to 9pm on Friday 30 October. Tickets costing £21.50 are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/shrewsburyschool.
