This October, the Barnes Theatre at Shrewsbury School will host a special evening reflecting on the extraordinary military career of Shropshire native Andrew (Vern) Stokes OBE, MVO, DL.
Garrison Sergeant Major Andrew “Vern” Stokes of the Coldstream Guards on duty in London during the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. (Photo: Katie Chan, CC BY-SA 4.0)
The event, which takes place on Friday, October 30th, will offer an insight into military life and the immense logistical precision behind recent major royal events. Tickets are priced at £21.50, and the evening serves as a major fundraising initiative for local charity.
All proceeds from the ticket sales go directly to the 4 All Foundation. This Shropshire-based charity works across the county, particularly within Telford, Wrekin, and the surrounding areas, to provide essential community programs. Their work focuses on delivering youth activities, reducing social isolation, and creating targeted initiatives that support local families and foster community cohesion.
Shropshire’s Lord Lieutenant, Anna Turner, will be involved in the evening. In her role as the official representative of the Crown in the county, she will be on stage conducting the live interview with Vern, who also serves as the charity’s Patron.
The conversation will trace Vern’s path from growing up in Madeley and joining the army at age 16, to his decade-long tenure as Garrison Sergeant Major. In that position, he was responsible for the operational execution of significant national occasions, including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II and the Coronation of King Charles III.
Key Information:
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Date & Time: Friday, October 30th, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
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Location: Barnes Theatre, Shrewsbury School
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Tickets: £21.50
Further information and ticket bookings are available via the 4 All Foundation website.
