Author: Bhav Pechetti

The Victory Services Club is delighted to receive a generous donation from VSC member, Rowan Crowley, who has gifted the Club with a distinguished engraving of the Battle of Trafalgar. The piece, produced by William Miller, after Clarkson Frederick Stanfield’s 1836 painting (which once hung in the United Services Club on Pall Mall), carries a meaningful personal history.

The engraving was originally purchased in 1980 as a present for Rowan’s father, Lieutenant Commander John Terence Crowley, who served in the Royal Navy and remained closely connected to naval life long after his retirement. For nearly forty years, the artwork hung in the family home in Hillgate Village, where it was a much‑loved reminder of his service and the friendships forged during his time at sea. Following his father’s passing, Rowan inherited the engraving, but had yet to find the right place for it.

Earlier this year, while celebrating his wife’s birthday in the Trafalgar Room at the VSC, he felt the Club would be an ideal home for the piece – and subsequently, generously offered the engraving to the VSC, so that it could be enjoyed by members for years to come, particularly those with naval backgrounds or an interest in maritime history.

Rowan and his wife have been long‑standing members and regular visitors to the Club.

The VSC extends its sincere thanks to Rowan for this thoughtful and meaningful contribution. A suitable location within the Club will be found for the engraving, where it will become part of the collection that celebrates the heritage and traditions of the Armed Forces community.

This event is now fully booked — thank you for the wonderful response.

We’re delighted to announce an upcoming Members’ event — An American in London — a fascinating guided walking tour through Mayfair, followed by lunch at the VSC, taking place on Sunday, 5th July 2026.

Led by qualified London tour guide, Caroline Mongan (as featured on the BBC), this engaging 90‑minute walk explores the remarkable connections with the USA which are woven into London’s history.

Along the route, you’ll discover where American socialite Wallis Simpson was at the moment Edward VIII became King; pause outside the former diplomatic mission of the short-lived Republic of Texas; and learn the unexpected origins of New York City’s name.

You’ll look up towards the flat where Jimi Hendrix claimed to have seen the ghost of Handel; visit the most ‘American’ square in London; and stop by the iconic bench featuring Churchill and Roosevelt, whose partnership shaped the course of the Second World War. It’s a lively, story‑rich walk that brings Anglo‑American history vividly to life.

The tour begins at Green Park Station, by the Constance Fund Fountain of Diana, where Caroline will be waiting with a ‘Victory Services Club Walking Tour‘ sign.

The walk concludes at the VSC, where members will enjoy a set lunch (see details below).

L U N C H   M E N U

Starter
Smoked Salmon & Prawn Roulade
Or
Soup of the Day

Main Course
Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding
Or
Wild Mushroom & Vegetable Pithivier
(Served with roast potatoes, mash, seasonal vegetables and gravy)

Dessert
Strawberry & White Chocolate Cheesecake
Meringue, Clotted Cream Ice Cream, Baby Basil

Event Details:

📅 Date: Sunday, 5th July 2026
🕒 Time: 11:00 – 12:45 (please meet at 10:50)
🎫 Ticket Price: £49.50 per person
📍 Meeting Point: Constance Fund Fountain of Diana, near Green Park Station. The tour will finish at the Victory Services Club.

Booking Information:

To book, please go to the Members’ Area on our website, call the Membership Department on 0207 616 8312 or email mem@vsc.co.uk. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.

We look forward to welcoming you for this special summer event.

The VSC Membership Team

Following the success of last year’s visits, we are delighted to once again invite VSC Members to an exclusive guided tour of the Guards’ Chapel in London.

The Royal Military Chapel, more commonly known as the Guards’ Chapel, stands proudly on Birdcage Walk on the south side of St James’s Park and serves as the spiritual home of the Household Division. Members will enjoy a 60-minute guided tour led by The Reverend Alex Bennett CF, including access to unique and historic items within the Chapel vestry.

2026 Visit Dates:

• Thursday, 9th April 2026 at 10:30

• Thursday, 18th June 2026 at 10:30 [No Spaces Available]

• Thursday, 10th September 2026 at 10:30 

• Thursday, 12th November 2026 at 10:30 [No Spaces Available]

• Thursday, 10th December 2026 at 10:30

Location: The Guards’ Chapel, Birdcage Walk

As places are limited, Members are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment. The Guards’ Chapel visits are free of charge. To secure your place, please contact the Membership Team by telephone on 0207 616 8312 or via email at mem@vsc.co.uk.

Following the tour on Thursday, 10th December 2026, Members are warmly invited to book for the Club Secretary’s Lunch at 12:00 at the VSC. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a relaxed three-course meal, including half a bottle of wine per person, while meeting fellow Members and the Club Secretary & CEO, Colin Francis CBE.

The cost of the lunch is £45 per person. Bookings for the lunch can be made through the Membership Team at the time of reserving your place on the Chapel visit.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to these exclusive Member events.

We would like to inform members of two important improvement projects taking place within the Club during the early part of 2026. These works form part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing our facilities.

Housekeeping Corridor Development

From 9th January to 13th March 2026, we will be undertaking development and improvement works to the Housekeeping Corridor. While these works are largely behind the scenes, there will be some temporary changes to operational areas and access to certain spaces within the Club.

As the project progresses, minor adjustments may be required to ensure the Club continues to operate smoothly. We will keep disruption to a minimum and thank members for their patience and understanding during this period.

Please note that during this time, the Reading Room will be temporarily closed and repurposed. Members who require access to a computer or printing facilities are invited to speak to a member of the team, who will be happy to assist.

Memorial Wing Bathroom Refurbishment

During January, February, and March we will also be refurbishing bathrooms within the Memorial Wing. As part of the first phase of this project, essential water isolation valves will be installed to serve 2nd to 8th Floors.

Due to the nature of these works, all bedrooms in the Memorial Wing will be unavailable for the first two weeks of the project. These installations are critical to the long-term reliability and safety of the building’s services and will significantly improve future maintenance capabilities.

We appreciate members’ understanding as these important improvements are carried out and look forward to welcoming you to enhanced facilities once the works are complete. Further updates will be shared as the projects progress.

The VSC is delighted to share with its members, a special opportunity for veterans and serving members of the UK Armed Forces, who are visiting London during the Remembrance weekend.

From Saturday, 8th – Tuesday, 11th November, FRAMELESS – London’s immersive art experience – has partnered with the Royal British Legion to offer free entry, for UK serving military and veterans, to a special poppy-themed installation . Visitors can step inside a visual poppy field, accompanied by a reflective soundscape, created to honour the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces. Complimentary tickets must be booked online in advance via the Frameless website. Tickets are likely to be in high demand and will be issued on a first come, first served basis.

👉🏻 Please note: This is not a VSC-organised event. All enquiries, bookings, and ticket-related queries should be made directly to FRAMELESS

📍 Location: FRAMELESS, 6 Marble Arch Place, London W1H 7AP
📅 Dates: Saturday, 8th – Tuesday, 11th November 2025
🎟️ Tickets: https://frameless.com

Proof of Service

On arrival, guests will be required to show valid identification such as a MOD90 card, Veterans ID, Defence Discount Card, or MoD certificate of eligibility.

Accompanying family and friends are welcome to purchase standard admission tickets online.

Last Friday, 3rd October, the VSC came alive with the sights, sounds, and flavours of Bavaria as members and guests gathered to celebrate Oktoberfest 2025 in true festive style.

The Club was transformed into a vibrant bierhalle atmosphere as the Bierkeller Boys — a traditional Bavarian-style Oompah Band — brought energy, humour, along with authentic and popular tunes that got everyone clapping, singing, and dancing.

Guests were treated to a delicious spread of Oktoberfest favourites, including Bratwurst, Schnitzel, Pretzels, and German beer. The dress code was “fun,” and our members certainly delivered, with plenty of lederhosen, hats, and big smiles on display throughout the evening.

The Oktoberfest event is part of the VSC’s Member Events, which continues to grow with unique, engaging events designed to bring members together throughout the year. Following the success of this year’s 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II commemorations and celebrations, Oktoberfest was yet another occasion for the VSC community to gather and celebrate the camaraderie that makes the Club so special.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended and helped make it such a special evening. Missed this event? Don’t worry — our events calendar is packed with more to come. Head to our Social Diary to see what’s next!

Take a look at the photos below from this fantastic Oktoberfest event — we hope you enjoy them!

On Thursday, 2nd October 2025, staff volunteers from the VSC enthusiastically took part in the Silver Sunday “Get Up & Dance” event, organised by Age UK Westminster and Marble Arch London BID.

The event was designed to promote wellbeing and connection among people aged 70 and over — empowering older adults to lead fulfilling, active social lives.

Held at a local community centre near Queen’s Park, the afternoon brought together volunteers from local businesses and community partners to support older residents, in a day filled with movement, music, and conversation. VSC staff helped set up the room, served lunch and afternoon tea, and encouraged guests to join in the dancing. The atmosphere was warm and joyful, with over 50 participants enjoying lively social interaction and plenty of smiles.

A special moment came when Angela Rippon, TV legend and 2023 Strictly Come Dancing contestant, made a surprise appearance. She joined in the dancing, cheered on participants, and presented Silver Sunday T-shirts to the afternoon’s most enthusiastic dancers – including our own Tomasin and Remi.

The VSC is pleased to support such a meaningful initiative that celebrates togetherness, reduces loneliness, and strengthens community spirit.

We’re delighted to share that this year’s Macmillan Coffee Morning Bake Off at the VSC was a great success, raising a total of £213 in donations on the day and online, all in support of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Our staff brought in an incredible spread of homemade bakes, including Chocolate and Raspberry Cake, Chocolate Fondant, Baladyna, Sezamovie, Victoria Sponges, Lemon Drizzle, Madeleines, Mars and Marshmallow Bites, and White Chocolate & Raspberry Cheesecake. Many of the bakes were made with help from staff members’ children, making the occasion all the more special.

The judging panel had the difficult task of selecting winners from such a delicious line-up. First prize went to Nina Polaschek, our HR Manager, for her White Chocolate & Raspberry Cheesecake. Marcela Mich Nee Pietrzak from Housekeeping was awarded runner-up for her impressive entries of Baladyna and Sezamovie.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who baked, judged, and joined in. With your generosity, we’ve raised funds that will help Macmillan continue their incredible work supporting people living with cancer.

Join us at the VSC Grill as we celebrate National Curry Week (6th–10th October)! And enjoy a special menu of Club Dishes throughout the week — all crafted by our chefs, bringing authentic flavours from Sri Lanka, India, and Vietnam.

For just £18.50 per person, taste a new curry on each day of National Curry Week. Come hungry, bring your friends, and join us for a week of spice, flavour, and culture!

On 15th August 2025, the Victory Services Club observed the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, marking Japan’s surrender and the end of the Second World War. Members and their guests came together to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Allied forces who served in the Far East—many of whom faced intense combat and endured harsh conditions in prisoner of war camps—before victory was secured.

The event began with all attendees and VSC staff participating in the two-minute national silence, setting a solemn and reflective tone for the afternoon and honouring the resilience, dedication, and sacrifice of the countless men and women who served during the Second World War.

Guests were then warmly welcomed by John Wilson of the VSC Senior Management Team, who reflected on the significance of the day and paid tribute to the extraordinary courage of those who served in the Far East. Following his remarks, guests enjoyed a delicious three-course lunch, expertly prepared by the VSC’s talented chefs.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation by guest speaker, Simon Leney, who recounted the remarkable story of his father, Sergeant Roger A. Leney, a Wireless Operator with Force 136 in Burma during the final months of the war. In his talk, Mongoose White: Behind the Japanese Lines in Burma ‘45, Simon described the extraordinary challenges faced by covert teams operating deep behind enemy lines. Their bravery, ingenuity, and determination played a vital role in securing Allied victory in the Pacific. For his distinguished service, Simon’s father, Sergeant Leney was awarded both the Military Medal and the Croix de Guerre.

The VSC places great importance on these commemorative events, ensuring that the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation are remembered. The VJ Day 80 commemorations form part of the Club’s year-long programme of remembrance, reflecting on pivotal moments of the Second World War and the legacy of all who served. A full gallery of photos from the VJ Day 80 lunch is provided below.

In this anniversary year, we look forward to continuing these commemorations during the upcoming Remembrance Weekend, which will feature music and gatherings at the Club throughout the weekend. Members wishing to dine at the VSC during this time are kindly encouraged to book early.

Earlier this month, all eleven of the Victory Services Club’s chefs took part in a training trip to visit two of our long-standing suppliers – Lambton & Jackson and Tiptree farms. The visits provided an insight into some of the finest ingredients served at the Club while highlighting the craftsmanship and sustainability behind them.

The first stop was Lambton & Jackson, an award-winning smokehouse best known for its smoked salmon. Guided by Sean and Darcy, the chefs saw first-hand how salmon fillets are prepared, From curing and smoking to packaging, they gained an appreciation of the skills required to deliver such high-quality produce.

The journey then continued to Tiptree farm, home of the family-run business Wilkin & Sons Ltd, which has been farming in Essex since 1757. The chefs explored the rich heritage of Tiptree jams and sauces, used in our buffets, while also discovering the farm’s innovative approach to sustainable agriculture. From harnessing solar power to moving towards full energy self-sufficiency, Tiptree is leading the way in its commitment towards sustainability. The chefs also saw how the farm is adapting its methods to deal with our climate’s changing weather conditions to ensure consistently high-quality products.

The trip was both educational and enjoyable, giving the Kitchen Team a deeper appreciation of the ingredients they use every day, and strengthening the VSC’s partnership with suppliers who share the same excellent standard of quality and care.

The VSC will be marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, commemorating Japan’s surrender and the end of the Second World War, with a VJ Lunch at the Club on 15th August 2025. This significant occasion pays tribute to the thousands of Allied personnel who served in the Far East, many of whom endured harsh conditions and fierce fighting before victory was finally achieved.

As part of our remembrance, the VSC are delighted to welcome guest speaker, Simon Leney, to the VJ Lunch. Simon will share the extraordinary story of his father, Sergeant Roger A. Leney, a Wireless Operator with Force 136 in Burma during the war’s final months. His talk, Mongoose White: Behind the Japanese Lines in Burma ‘45, reveals the incredible challenges faced by these covert teams, operating deep behind Japanese lines as the conflict drew to a close.

Simon’s father was awarded both the Military Medal and the Croix de Guerre for his wartime service. He has previously shared this compelling story at leading history events, including the We Have Ways Festival.

There are very few spaces remaining for this event, so if you would like to book, you will need to be quick. For details of the lunch menu, please check out the event on our social diary page at www.vsc.co.uk/events/vj-day-lunch.

This promises to be an inspiring and poignant afternoon—an opportunity for remembrance, reflection, and pride as we honour the enduring legacy of those who served.