VETERANS and military personnel from the Invictus Games Choir took to the stage at the Royal Variety Performance to sing for Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

The Duke was so impressed he gave a thumbs up to the choir which included soldier Yasmin Al-Ekely, who serves with the Royal Engineers at Catterick Garrison.

The Invictus Games Choir is a community choir made up of wounded, injured and sick, serving and veteran personnel from all services who get involved as part of their recovery.

Yasmin was injured whilst playing Rugby for her regiment, she is currently waiting for her siixth knee operation and is due to be medically discharged form the Army early in the New Year.

She said: "Being injured affected me in so many ways. My journey has led me to picking up some mental health issues along the way. The choir has changed my life, everyone is so understanding. It’s refreshing knowing they have been through or are still going through something similar to you."

The choir performed a rendition of the National Anthem at the concert which was held at the London palladium. Yasmin added: Being part of the Royal Variety Performance was just amazing. I felt like a celebrity for the day. It was a true once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget.”

Supported by Help for Heroes, the Choir’s rehearsals and performances give members the chance to regain a sense of purpose and direction which is often left behind because of their injuries. The aim is they feel part of a family again after losing the camaraderie they had while serving or during their discharge process.

Eight members of the choir, all with different stories, were invited to perform at the Palladium in front of over 2000 guests including the Duke who is the patron of the Invictus Games.

The choir's performance is being televised tonight on ITV1 at 7.30pm as part of coverage of the Royal Variety concert.