On 4 December 2024, The National Lottery hosted a spectacular music and entertainment show at the OVO Arena, Wembley, which included eight WWII veterans supported by the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans.
The show celebrated the big moments of 2024 including the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, The National Lottery’s 30th anniversary and included surprise contributions from Richard Armitage and Jason Isaacs with a group of D-Day veterans.
The National Lottery’s Big Bash event, hosted by Vernon Kay and Fleur East transformed the OVO Arena into a celebratory end of year party featuring musical performances, popular culture highlights and key sporting moments that have impacted the UK this year.
From a sensational performance of ‘Cupid’s Bow’ by Olly Alexander to a surprise appearance from Loose Women with the cast of Mamma Mia to celebrate both shows 25 year anniversary, the event showcased some of the unforgettable moments from the past year. Opening The National Lottery event was Perrie with an incredible rendition of her new hit ‘You Go Your Way’ whilst KSI wowed the 8,000 strong crowd with his latest single, ‘Thick Of It’.
Other performances included Craig David's medley of hits which got the crowd up on their feet, Ella Henderson’s mash up of Alibi/ Filthy Rich as well as an exclusive performance, for one night only, from Cirque du Soleil's CORTEO.
A touching moment from the night was a reading from legendary British actor Jason Isaacs alongside National Lottery-funded Taxi Charity for Military Veterans where the eight veterans, aged between 98 and 101, were welcomed on stage to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Colin Mills, London cab driver and Chairman of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, said: “The veterans who participated in The National Lottery’s Big Bash had been with us in Normandy this June for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, where they received a wonderful welcome wherever they went. However, they were absolutely astonished and delighted by the reception they received at the OVO Arena and they can’t wait to sit with their families on New Year’s Eve to watch the show.”
The National Lottery’s Big Bash welcomed guests to a spectacular show that celebrated the big moments of 2024, as well as the extraordinary people who have been able to make a difference thanks to National Lottery funding.
The programme aired on ITV1 and ITVX on 31 December 2024 between 17:45 and 19:45.
Photos
WWII veterans Don Turrell and Marie Scott with Jason Issacs: credit - Getty Images
WWII veteran Don Turrell with Callum Reid: credit – Dick Goodwin, Taxi Charity for Military Veterans