Childline’s Merry Little Christmas show raises £52,700
Childline raised £52,700 at the charity’s enchanting annual Christmas show, helping the services’ volunteer counsellors continue to help children over the festive period.
The NSPCC’s Merry Little Christmas show returned to Cadogan Hall in Chelsea on Tuesday, for its 16th year.
The evening included musical performances by ex-Sugababes singer, Heidi Range, and a celebrity reading from former Spice Girl, Geri Halliwell-Horner. The evening was hosted by broadcaster and journalist, Charlene White and actor, Chris Harper.
Ms Halliwell Horner, NSPCC Ambassador for Childhood, said: “Childline’s Merry Little Christmas at Cadogan Hall was a truly special evening celebrating the remarkable work of NSPCC and Childline.
“Their efforts are especially vital at Christmas, when many children face challenges that prevent them from experiencing the true magic of the season.
“I encourage everyone to support NSPCC and Childline this Christmas, as they work tirelessly to help children, and enjoy a joyful holiday.”
Members of The Kingdom Choir, known for their rendition of ‘Stand By Me’ at The Prince and Princess of Wales Royal Wedding, and The BIG Sing, a community choir group who participated on Britain’s Got Talent, performed at the show.
Strictly dancers, Kai Widdrington and Karen Hauer, produced a stellar performance, while journalist and broadcaster, Pandora Sykes and actress, Shaniqua Okwok conducted readings.
Previous concerts have welcomed The Duchess of Edinburgh, Natalie Dormer, Leona Lewis, Martin Freeman, Elaine Paige and Anton Du Beke.
Darren Worth, service head of Helplines for Childline, said: “Thank you to everyone who attended Merry Little Christmas and made it such a success.
“It was a magical night filled with festive cheer, and a tremendous amount of money was raised for Childline, which we are thrilled about.
“On average, a child will contact our service by phone or online every 45 seconds during the festive season.
“That’s why Childline volunteers will be available every day and night, ready to listen to children when they feel most alone and need our support the most.
“The cost of your Merry Little Christmas ticket will help Childline be ready to answer every question from children this Christmas.”
Childline is free to contact on 0800 1111 and is open every day for children and young people. They are also available to speak online through 1-2-1 chat and via email.
Pictured top: Geri Halliwell-Horner speaking at the NSPCC’s Merry Little Christmas show (Picture: Grainge Photography)