Hospice Isle of Man and Standard Bank are together offering islanders the chance to discover more about the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 from internationally renowned Zulu wars expert Rob Caskie.
At a fundraising event organised by Standard Bank, as part of its 150th anniversary celebrations, Rob Caskie a former principal lecturer at Fugitives’ Drift Lodge in KwaZulu Natal in South Africa, will draw on his vast knowledge to bring to life the story of those attempting to save the Queen’s Colour of their regiment during the Zulu wars.
The talk will offer an insight into the bravery of the Zulu army that defeated the British Army at the Battle of Isandlwana and also that of the 139 British soldiers who were attacked by 4,000 Zulu warriors; a British victory which saw the award of more Victoria Crosses than in any other single action in history.
Margaret Simpson, the Hospice Isle of Man Chief Executive, said: “Rob’s story-telling is world renowned and thousands of people travel to Fugitives’ Drift Lodge every year to hear about the Zulu wars. We are very pleased to be able to bring him to the Isle of Man to share with us the story made famous by the Michael Caine historical film, ‘Zulu’ that has captured the imagination of generations. We are very grateful to Manx Museum for allowing us to host this event and for Standard Bank support.” To buy tickets please contact fundraising@hospice.org.im or phone 647431.
John Coyle, Chief Executive of Standard Bank Isle of Man, said: “Our African heritage goes back 150 years and to celebrate this milestone, and to mark our 20 years in the Isle of Man, we are absolutely delighted to bring Rob to the island to share his fascinating tales of the Zulu Wars. This is a great opportunity for us to celebrate our African links in a way that benefits the local community and raises vital funds for Hospice Isle of Man.
He added: “The event in May offers a unique opportunity to experience the heat of the battle and the emotion of those involved through Rob’s story-telling and we are looking forward to an evening that promises to be as exciting as it is educational.”
The talk will take place in the lecture theatre at the Manx Museum and will follow a drinks and canapés reception. Tickets are now on sale and cost £20.
All proceeds will go to the Hospice Isle of Man which provides specialist palliative care for patients and their families facing life limiting illness. The care includes physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects and is provided by a multidisciplinary team free of charge. Hospice provide inpatient facilities, respite care, therapeutic day care, specialist nurses, social worker, counselling, a range of therapies and hospice at home services. Many patients are referred to the Hospice following diagnosis; they will often be cured but need the initial support for hospice’s many services.
