All five members of Racoon made knights in Order of Orange-Nassau
The Zeeland band was honoured for its contribution to Dutch music and its long commitment to the province and to social causes.
All five members of the band Racoon were appointed Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau on Saturday, shortly before their concert in the Zeelandhallen in Goes. Goes mayor Cees van den Bos presented the royal decoration.
The band received the honour for its contribution to Dutch music and its long-standing commitment to Zeeland and to social causes.
Racoon has been an ambassador for years of Villa Joep, a foundation that supports children with neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer. Singer Bart van der Weide wrote the song Don't Give Up The Fight, and the proceeds went to the foundation.
More on culture, media and sport
Orde van Oranje-Nassau
The Order of Orange-Nassau is a Dutch royal decoration that the King awards to people who have made a notable contribution to society, in the Netherlands or abroad. It has several ranks, and 'ridder' (knight) is one of the most common. Appointments are announced by royal decree, and the decoration is often presented by a mayor, commissioner or other official in the person's own municipality.
Villa Joep
Villa Joep is a Dutch foundation (stichting) that supports children with neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer, and their families. It raises money for care and research into this disease. Artists and bands sometimes act as ambassadors for the foundation or release charity songs to support its work.