Grab your mugs, kettles and spatulas for the biggest armed forces fundraising event of the year in Richmond.

The SSAFA is inviting friends, families and businesses to get involved in their annual 'Big Brew Up' to help raise vital funds during National Armed Forces Week from June 19 to 25.

Whether it is a Mad Hatter’s tea party, classic afternoon tea or even a gin and tea party – the charity is encouraging everyone to enjoy a cuppa tea and bite of cake with friends, family and colleagues for the military community.

Tegan Jones, director of fundraising at SSAFA, commented: “Every penny raised will allow SSAFA to continue to help more than 60,000 people a year, ranging from Second World War veterans to young servicemen and women wounded or killed in Afghanistan and Syria, and their families.”

To mark the launch of the campaign, the charity conducted a survey to find out if London is as clued up on hosting a ‘proper’ tea party as it is so proudly known for.

Intriguingly, results showed that British etiquette is no longer as widespread as it once was with 69% of people never using tea leaves and 93% admitting that they don’t know the basics of how to stir their tea – not to mention most people enjoying a good biscuit dunk.

“It is fascinating to see how London’s tea culture has evolved over time, “ Mr Jones added.

“Although the results have shown we need to brush up on our tea-etiquette, it is great to know that London is still passionate about tea drinking.”

SSAFA has been serving the armed forces for 132 years providing them with important specialist services and practical, emotional and financial support.

Antony Cotton, SSAFA Ambassador, said: “There is nothing I like more than sharing a cuppa and a chat with a mate, which is why I always look forward to SSAFA’s Big Brew Up each year!

“Our Armed Forces have dedicated their lives to keeping us safe and deserve all the support we can give them.”

Order your fundraising pack at www.ssafa.org.uk/bigbrewup today or, text to donate £2 by texting #BREW17£2 to 70070 and for more information on the charity visit www.ssafa.org.uk