It’s almost business as usual in a rather unusual situation!
A message from Karen…

The British Evacuees Association Office has now relocated back to Mattersey as I recover,  having had a positive Covid 19 test result today.  Please continue to send emails to our usual  address at era@evacuees.org.uk and they will be picked up daily, if possible.  Letters will be delivered from the office to my home address  at regular intervals.  Please be assured that all telephone messages left on the telephone number 01777 816166 will be collected and dealt with upon my return to the office.  Unfortunately the landline in Mattersey has recently been damaged by the wet and windy weather conditions.  It is  due for repair on Thursday 12th November, so my phone number 01777 816938 and internet access here may be limited until after that date,  so please be patient.   
 
You will now have received your ‘Christmas’ Evacuee.  I hope this has brought you all some festive cheer as we approach a special time of year when we usually see our family and friends.  Let’s hope it isn’t too long before we are able to do so again.  Your unique connection with other former evacuees makes The British Evacuees Association such an extraordinary group of individuals.  Take special care, stay safe, and keep your stories coming in! 
Very best wishes, Karen 

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James Roffey MBE

On 19th November, 2019, James was invited to Buckingham Palace for his Investiture. His guests on this memorable occasion were Lady Emma Barnard (one of the Patrons of The BEA) Karen (BEA Manager) and Sherin, his daughter.

Above: Karen, James and Sherin after the Investiture at Buckingham Palace - 19th November 2019

More photographs will appear in the January/February 2020 issue

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The Evacuees have arrived at The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire

Thank you to all our members, family and friends, and our supporters who have made this possible. It has been a long time in the making and your support and patience has been appreciated. Without you all, this would not have happened.

The British Evacuees Association celebrated its 21st Birthday with the Dedication of our National Memorial to the Evacuation by HRH The Duke of Gloucester on 25th July 2017.  Our memorial stands proudly next to the Children’s play area at The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. 

The BEA (formerly The Evacuees Reunion Association) is a non-profit making registered charity which is funded by our members subscriptions and donations.

It was formed in 1996 to ensure that the true story of the great evacuation would become better known and preserved for further generations.

We publish a 16 page bi-monthly magazine ‘The Evacuee’ which is sent to all our members worldwide, We currently have members in the United Kingdom, The United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and some parts of Europe.

The magazine features our members stories and recollections of their time as children, articles of interest, and an Events and Lost Touch section, that has helped many contact former friends and family. We organise reunions throughout the country, some are large and others are localised meetings.

Our biggest event to date was the St Pauls Commemorative Service held on 1st September 2009 which was attended by 1800 of our members and attracted worldwide coverage. We also attend many 1940’s themed events throughout the country and are proud to be invited and participate in the Royal British Legion’s Cenotaph Parade in November each year.

We provide educational information to schools, history groups, and are regularly asked to contribute/take part in radio/television programmes on the subject.

We currently have over 1300 members worldwide and membership is constantly increasing. Why don’t you join us!