March 30 was a significant night for the Firefighters Memorial Trust, with the organisation hosting a reception for HRH The Princess Royal and a number of other distinguished guests on HMS Belfast in London. The evening began with an opportunity for members of the Trust to meet and speak to Princess Anne – the charity’s patron – before hearing trustee Terry Glossop talk about the work carried out by the organisation and his hopes for the future. He said: “Being here on this warship makes a poignant link between those in different services who are willing to put their lives at risk in the service of their country. However, our focus is on firefighters, because sadly, a number are called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice. “This Firefighters Memorial Trust was created in 1990 and recognises those firefighters who make that sacrifice and honours their memory in a dignified and tangible way. “This is our 20th anniversary and with the support of our Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, our Trust has grown from strength to strength.” The evening also saw several other significant events, including the presentation of a cheque for £8,500 by Geoff Morgan on behalf of The Worshipful Company of Firefighters which was raised through various events. Perhaps the most important development of the evening was the announcement by Terry Glossop of the formal granting of a Royal Charter for the Trust. He said: “The Charter is now being designed and prepared for the official sealing by Her Majesty The Queen, and it is hoped our Patron may be able to present it to us in due course.”