The Military Wives join the Chelsea Pensioners to celebrate cheese

The Military Wives Choir were the guests of honour at this year’s annual Ceremony of the Christmas Cheeses at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, an event which dates back over 300 years and recognises the role of cheese in feeding the armed forces.

The Dairy Council has been arranging the donations for over 50 years, and this year a total of 246kg of British cheese has been donated to the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

Vicky Ackerman, a member of The Military Wives Choir Windsor, says, “It’s such an honour to be invited to be a part of this great British tradition. The Pensioners are close to the hearts of people across the UK and it’s particularly heartwarming to stand alongside them to herald the start of the festive season.

Ash Amirahmadi, chairman of The Dairy Council, comments, “We’re delighted to be celebrating the start of the festive season with the Chelsea Pensioners and the Military Wives Choir.

“Cheesemakers from across the UK have a great tradition of paying tribute to the courage and contribution of our war veterans, and we at The Dairy Council are proud to play a part in this historic event.”

Chelsea Pensioner Mary Johnston cut the ceremonial cheese during the ceremony, a 24kg Montgomery Cheddar donated by J.A. & E. Montgomery, which marks the first time a woman has ever cut the ceremonial Christmas cheese.