Deborah Day pupils star show for Christmas appeal

PUPILS from the Deborah Day Theatre School and Dance Academy took to the stage to raise funds for the Community Links and Newham Recorder Christmas Toy Appeal.

They showed off their singing and dancing talents at the Brampton Manor Theatre in East Ham in their Christmas Delight Show.

Around 150 children aged between three and 18 took part.

All proceeds raised through ticket sales, more than £1,000, will boost the appeal.

Deborah said: “It is the first time we have put on a show for the appeal, and the children and parents really enjoyed all the fun.”

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Bikers will stage a special toy run for the appeal on Saturday December 8. The run will see bikers gather outside the King’s Head pub in High Beech in Epping Forest and ride to Community Links base in Canning Town with armfuls of toys, many decked out in fancy dress.

The ride begins at noon and is open to any bikers who want to take part can call John on 07789 881913 or Graham on 07885 311566.

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West Ham MP Lyn Brown has backed the Community Links and Newham Recorder Christmas Toy Appeal.

She handed over a collection of toys and gifts at Community Links’ Barking Road headquarters, plus a cheque for £100, which will be used to buy even more presents.

Her donation marked the launch of the 100 Club, where businesses and individuals are encouraged to donate £100, of which every last penny will be spent on providing gifts for impoverished children in the borough.

Lyn said: “It’s a very great pleasure to again contribute towards such a fantastic cause. I know it goes such a long way to ensuring that children in Newham, and not just those whose parents can afford it, are able to open a stocking on Christmas morning.”

She added: “I congratulate Kevin Jenkins and everyone at Community Links, and of course everybody at the Recorder, for making the Toy Appeal a great success for the thirty-eighth year.”

Kevin said: “I am really grateful to Lyn for her donation and support, as well as helping to launch our 100 Club.”

The Christmas Toy Appeal, run by the Recorder in conjunction with Community Links, has received a strong response from readers.

Lyn is pictured with Paula Blake from Links

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Ukelele band D’Ukes are again supporting the appeal. The seven-piece band will provide entertainment for Community Links fund-raising lunch in Canning Town on December 12. Get tickets for the meal direct from Links on (020) 7473 2270.

Sir Robin Wales was joined by two of the borough’s councillors, Obaid Khan and Unmesh Desai, when he presented a collection of books, games and toys to children from Community Links’ after school club in Rokeby Street, Stratford.

The donation will help provide presents for around 4,000 underprivileged youngsters and their families, who have been referred to the Canning Town-based charity.

Sir Robin said: “This year the need is more acute than ever. I am happy to be able to do my bit to support it.

“Every Newham child matters, especially at this time of year.

“If you are buying gifts for loved ones and friends, please add another for a child in Newham. Any support you can give the appeal would be welcomed.”