For the first time in its history, the Fitzrovia Centre served Christmas dinner for Londoners of all ages who, for whatever reason, would otherwise have spent Christmas day alone. Guests were asked to bring a children’s gift and all presents were donated to the children’s acute cancer ward of the University College London Hospital (UCLH), the Evelina London Children’s Hospital, and the Great Ormond Street Hospital. As well as dinner and drinks, guests were treated to some pleasant entertainment including singing of Christmas songs, film screenings, and a play room with ping pong and other games (see pictures). Christmas can be a time of high stress for those living on their own, as more than at any other time of year it can exacerbate feelings of isolation. The ability to join a group of people in a similar situation and share Christmas together can be a lifesaver. Local resident Georges Sokol came up with the idea, leading a team of volunteers who delivered a very successful event. Over 50 people attended and many words of appreciation were uttered. Special thanks go to the hard-working volunteers who made it all possible: Sheetal Thaker, Barbara Cool, Ashlee Godwin, and Miguel Perez. Thank you to Pat Tulloch and Gaby of the Fitzrovia Centre for sponsoring the dinner and allowing the project to take place at the Centre. Thank you also to those who generously contributed supplies of wine bottles and other treats. They include: Edward Turner, Griff Rhys Jones, Guy Ritchie, Heide Eyles, Brian Figler, Lauren Kemp, Birgit Maass, and the Kramers family. And finally, thank you to all the guests who made the effort to bring wrapped gifts, which will no doubt make a difference to children’s lives.
