Chelsea Pensioners guests of honour at Dad’s Army premiere

27th January 2016

A group of Chelsea Pensioners, some who served during the Second World War were guests of honour at the ‘Dad’s Army’ film premiere in London last night (Tuesday 26 January).

They joined stars of the film on the red carpet and were photographed with leading lady Catherine Zeta Jones.

Chelsea Pensioner John Cuthbert said: “I was holding her [Catherine Zeta Jones’] hand. I thought it was a great honour. Actually I thought it was marvellous. Usually I sit and read in the evening, this was much more exciting! I joined the Home Guard when I was 16 on the 24th of May 1940. Me and my father were the first to join from my town because we lived close to the police station and that’s where you signed up. I joined the army in 1942. The film was nothing like I remember though – I was digging trenches when I was in the Home Guard.”

The original hit comedy series Dad’s Army was originally aired on the BBC between 1968 and 1977. It is almost 50 years since the first episode was aired and the new film is due to be released on 5 February.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea offers a home, comradeship and the highest standards of care for retired soldiers. To make a donation to our work, visit our donation page.

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