Wolrd War Two sweetheart, who kept troops’ spirits up, finds out about Honiton-based charity from Suzanne Dando.

Whilst presenting for Sky television at Hickstead over the weekend, Suzanne Dando, a trustee of the Honiton-based Baton charity, met Dame Vera Lynn and, after explaining the Baton’s cause, Dame Vera wanted to hold the Baton for this photograph.

Alan Rowe MBE, founder of the Baton, said: “Dame Vera, born in 1917, did so much to keep the spirits of our forces up in very dark hours during World War Two and the Baton could not be seen in more appropriate hands.

“It should be remembered that, as well as recent conflicts such as Iraq and Afghanistan, we still have people living with the memories of past active service, their families and friends sharing the effects of those memories, too.

“The Baton will continue to be a conscience for all those involved, encouraging us all to make sure the existing framework of support is maintained, but, more importantly, improved.”