Dairy sector donates British cheeses to Chelsea pensioners
Paul Vernon with Andy Kay © Dairy UK The UK dairy sector donated roughly 340kg of cheese to the Chelsea Pensioners of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, as part of a long-standing annual tradition dating back to 1692.
The Annual Ceremony of the Christmas Cheeses took place on 3 December, with delegates from across the dairy sector attending the festive occasion.
Chelsea Pensioner Andy Kay, who served many years in the British Army, was tasked with cutting the Ceremonial Montgomery Cheddar as part of the proceedings.
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Paul Vernon, chairman of processor organisation Dairy UK, thanked the industry for its generous donations and paid tribute to Fuller’s Griffin Brewery for donating ale to the Chelsea pensioners.
Mr Vernon said: “As cheesemakers, we’re proud to donate our delicious, nutrient-rich British cheeses to support this wonderful tradition.
“Cheese is one of our great national foods and plays an important role in good nutrition throughout life.
“It’s a privilege to stand alongside the Chelsea Pensioners and be part of a celebration that brings people together in such a meaningful way.”