Category Archives: Philanthropy & Society

Kate & William: Get Free Glass Of Champagne At Gilgamesh

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Celebrate The Royal Wedding at Gilgamesh

To celebrate Wills and Kate tying the knot, acclaimed Camden restaurant Gilgamesh is throwing a lavish Royal Wedding Reception.

As well as screening the ceremony live, Gilgamesh will be serving an English/Pan-Asian brunch, featuring dishes themed around all things Royal.

On Friday 29 April, the renowned North London hotspot will be the perfect place to celebrate the Royal Wedding. From 11am-5pm diners can choose from fantastic dishes including Sandringham Ham with Poached Free-Range Eggs and Hollandaise Sauce, Buckingham Hot-Pot and Lady-in-Waiting Chocolate Cake.

As an added bonus, guests named William or Kate will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne on arrival, provided they show photo ID.

So head to Gilgamesh for a day that promises to keep the corks popping. For bookings contact reservations@gilgameshbar.com or call 0207 428 4922(ext 2).
GILGAMESH

Camden View

Camden Stables Market

Chalk Farm Road

London NW1 8AH

Tel: 020 7482 5757

www.gilgameshbar.com

Styled & Frocked on the King's Road

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BBC children’s television presenter Cerrie Burnell will be appearing at the Styled and Frocked fashion event at JuJu Nightclub, Kings Road on Thursday 28th April.

The Tree of Hope Children’s Charity has joined forces with the campaigning Models of Diversity for a unique Fashion Event to help raise funds for children’s specialist medical treatment and therapy in the UK.

One of the few visibly disabled people working on television, Cerrie’s appointment as presenter on BBC’s children’s channel CBeebies sparked complaints from a minority of parents. Subsequently Cerrie has spent much time campaigning to raise awareness on disability and the prejudice that surrounds it.

Cerrie has said ”I am delighted to have the opportunity to lend my support to a fashion event which will be celebrating models of all different ages, colours, sizes and abilities.” Adding ”It will be great evening and I am so pleased to be helping rasie raise support and awareness for the Tree of Hope Children’s Charity and the brilliant work they so.”

Guest List also includes:

Catherine Balavage

Chelsey Baker

Liz Brewer

Ben Duncan

Ian Carmichael and Tony Pappas

Leee John

Cindy Jackson

The event will be hosted by Sally Farmiloe-Neville

With the guidance and approval of medical practitioners in our health care services, The Tree of Hope Children’s Charity will fund grants for medical treatment and therapy within the private sector of medicine in the UK. We will also fund surgery and treatment by medical specialists abroad, where the specific knowledge and facilities are available, in order to treat UK children as quickly as possible. Please visit http://www.treeofhope.org.uk/ for more information (Reg. No:1043092).

Models of Diversity is a London-based non-profit organization, whose mission is to change the face of fashion and modelling. They have had great visibility in the press with their impressive campaigning, celebrity endorsements and most recently, their models have been used in popular television programmes on Channel 4 in 2011.

Lee Chapman and Leslie Ash, are hoping to attend the Fashion Show, stating: “We are both delighted that we are able to help the Tree of Hope Children’s Charity by hosting this Fashion Show at JuJu.”

Special guest entertainment including the Teakshow comedy duo. the crooning of Don Wilson and Lipstick Bandits Burlesque and a catwalk show featuring the clothes of up and coming Bo Carter, Hoss Intropia and Toni Pickles of Get Waisted.

Multi Award Winning Bar, JuJu is the hottest addition to the nightlife scene on World Famous King’s Road in Chelsea. Located in the heart of Chelsea, JuJu has won multiple awards since opening. In 2009, it was awarded Best New Bar and in 2010 it was awarded Outstanding Mixology by the London Club and Bar Awards. Not surprising, given that JuJu serves the finest cocktails mixed by some of London’s best bartenders including their in-house mixologist. JuJu also offers an eclectic combination of Pan Asian tapas food from all over the world.

28th April
6pm – Late
JuJu
316 – 318 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 5UH, London
Tickets £20 (including a fabulous goody bag)

You can buy them here:

http://styledandfrockedjuju.eventbrite.com

http://www.treeofhope.org.uk

Make a Donation here: http://www.justgiving.com/treeofhope/Donate

Just Enough For The Real World Charity Performances

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In Association With

The Helen Bamber Foundation

www.justenoughfortherealworld.com

“Sex trafficking is a hugely important subject, and I believe we need as much art as we can get to help people understand what’s going on. It’s all the little efforts that produce a shift in consciousness. What’s more, to do nothing is unthinkable.”- Emma Thompson

“Sometimes all it takes is one person to make a difference”– Helen Bamber

Music Producers and Writers, Phil Knight and Rob Clydesdale have worked tirelessly with their team of musicians in creating the forthcoming second series of charity performances in association with Emma Thompson’s ‘Helen Bamber Foundation’. Repeated due to popular demand, the three live theatre shows will take place on the 5th, 6th and 7th May following the band’s release of their first single ‘The Sky Is Always Mine’ on 9th May.

‘The Sky Is Always Mine’ features vocalist Desi Valentine whose credits include playing the lead in the West End version of Fame and as backing singer for artists such as Elton John and Liza Minnelli. The single will be released on the 9th of May following the three live theatre shows. The theatre shows incorporate the full selection of songs from the charity album ‘Just Enough For The Real World’, featuring eleven up and coming singers including the daughter of TV Chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, Christina Novelli, to Desi Valentine and even a full marching band.

In 2008, Phil Knight from Waltham Forest was invited by actress Emma Thompson to view an educational exhibition in Trafalgar Square called ‘Journey’. Journey told the story of an Eastern European girl, Elena, who was trafficked to the UK and subsequently forced to service up to fifty men a day; she was further subjected to physical torture. The Authorities eventually caught up with the trafficking circle, which thankfully led to Elena’s release. The Helen Bamber Foundation, whose chair person is Emma Thompson, provided solace and helped Elena turn her life around so that she may now live the normal life she always dreamed of.

This was to change Phil’s life forever. He felt such anger for Elena’s story that he could no longer simply sit back and ignore such terrible human rights violations. But without having a human rights background he could only act in the arena he knew…………..music.

By 2009, Phil wanted to raise awareness of the Helen Bamber Foundation in order to help an unquantifiable number of women and children who are subjects of trafficking every year. The Drum For Life project involved Phil drumming for four and a half days, non-stop, in Leicester Square, to over 1800 songs and subsequently demonstrating self-torture. Sleep deprivation made him hallucinate; the motive behind the project made him cry, but remembering the story of Elena gave him the encouragement to complete the project and raise over £4,000 for the cause. By November 2009, producer Rob Clydesdale from Hertfordshire and Phil joined forces to discuss the making of an album for the benefit of the Foundation. They called it ‘Just Enough For The Real World’.

“This is great music by great writer-performers who were inspired by great suffering. Weirdly, it is full of humour and hope and breathes life into its listeners, not sadness. Joyful and timely, it reminds us what ARTISTS can do when they’re in the right place at the right time”- Emma Thompson

“Baroness Benjamin: More and more people are being inspired by documentaries, films and newspaper articles to become proactive, such as the young musician whom I heard about just recently, who saw the documentary “The Journey” and recorded a CD to tell the story of young women sold into sex slavery and continually moved across borders. He did so because he felt compelled to do something to raise awareness. I believe that, in order to engage more people like him, we should encourage the media to search out stories that highlight the evil trade in human beings” – Baroness Benjamin

“Absolutely Fantastic” – Jamie Theakston

‘If this CD and all the hard work behind it can help save just one life, it will all have been worth it,’ Phil Knight.

ENJOY THE SUN SAFELY THIS WEEKEND ADVISES CANCER RESEARCH UK

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AS Britain looks forward to the first ‘BBQ weekend’ of the year, Cancer Research UK is advising people, particularly those with fair skin, to enjoy the sun safely, be SunSmart and take steps to avoid getting sunburn.

Temperature predictions for the weekend are expected to remain unseasonably warm for April, with parts of Britain hotter than the Mediterranean.

Caroline Cerny, SunSmart campaign manager at Cancer Research UK, said: “A sunny weekend is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy the weather, particularly as some sun is good for us. However, before heading out to relax in the garden, taking a trip to the beach, or even just walking about town, think about your skin and the steps you can take to cut your chances of getting sunburn.

“Enjoy the sun safely – relax in the shade, cover up with hats and loose clothing, and use at least factor 15 sunscreen with a four or five star rating to protect your skin from sunburn. As well as being painful and unattractive, sunburn is a sign of skin damage that can increase your risk of skin cancer.”

Now in its ninth year, Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart campaign is encouraging people to enjoy the sun safely and avoid sunburn by offering advice on how best to protect against too much ultraviolet radiation (UV) which as well as being the major cause of skin cancer, also leads to premature ageing of the skin. Sunburn is a sign the DNA in your skin cells has been damaged and even though the redness will fade, the damage could remain and lead to serious problems in later life, including the most dangerous form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma.

To find out more on how to enjoy the sun safely, skin cancer and what to look out for, visit Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart website at www.sunsmart.org.uk.

Kate Middleton; How To Catch Your Own Prince. Jerramy Fine Tells All.

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1) How excited are you about the Royal Wedding.

Are you kidding? I live for this stuff. To me, royal nuptials are this heady concoction of ancient tradition, modern-day romance and fairy tale magic. (Not to mention that I have been fascinated by England’s royal family since I was a toddler and for many years, my greatest wish was to marry one of the Queen’s grandsons!)


2) What do you think about Kate Middleton?
I think Kate’s fashion sense is pitch-perfect. She always looks chic yet conservative and her love of classic staples like tailored suits, tweed jackets and suede boots, makes it clear that the girl was born to be a Windsor. I wish she weren’t so heavy handed with her eye-liner, but she is leading the way when it comes to teaching England the value of a good American-style blow-dry.

4) Why did you want to be a princess?

I was born with this incessant princess desire. I’m not sure why or how. (I mean, my parents are hippies and I wasn’t allowed television!) I guess it started with Disney Princesses and then when I saw Diana’s wedding – that was it. My career goal was solved at a very early age. Princesshood or bust!

One of the major things that always attracted me to princesshood was the amazing sacrifice these rare women made for their countries. The idea of living a life of duty – for the sake of your subjects, rather than yourself – still brings tears to my eyes. One of things I loved about Princess Diana more than anything else – more than her stunning beauty and more than her royal title – was that she genuinely understood the unique and far-reaching power of being a Princess. Wherever she went, for better or for worse, Diana knew the press would follow – yet she had the principles and the courage to use this incredible power to draw the world’s attention away from herself and onto those that needed it most.

Needless to say, I also wanted Princess Diana’s wardrobe, palaces and parties (what little girl wouldn’t?), but I also yearned for that distinctively royal strength: to be able to think beyond yourself any situation.

5) Any tips for women who want to get into the Royal Circle?
Always be polite, but getting your foot in the royal door is not easy so be prepared to punch your way in! Once you’re there, be sure to dress appropriately, to smile demurely and to say as a little as possible. (Check out the the ball scene in My Fair Lady for more details.)


6) You obviously love Royalty. Why do you think the Royal family are still relevant?
When you hail from a country where the only palace is Cinderella’s Castle, it’s natural to be enthralled by the UK’s living, breathing royal family. For many Brits, the royals are just a part of everyday English life, but to me the royal family and all it represents is a constant source of enchantment.

Every little girl dreams of meeting prince charming, becoming a princess and living happily ever after – and by agreeing to marry William, Kate Middleton has become a conduit for the world to vicariously live out these dreams. I think the royals fulfil a very real need in our global psyche that cannot be fulfilled by politicians or Hollywood stars.


7) How did you come about writing your book?
When I met my childhood crush at the age of 25, I knew I had a story tell! I’ve always enjoyed writing and I knew that my quest to be a princess was a theme most girls could relate to. There’s lots of negativity and skepticism in the world these days – so most of all, I wanted my book to convey the importance of listening to your heart, holding tight to your childhood dream and believing in the impossible – no matter what those grumpy cynics out in the real world may tell you!


8) Who are your favourite writers?
Paul Coelho (The Alchemist), Marianne Williamson (A Return to Love), and Garth Stein (Art of Racing in the Rain) – for soul-touching narratives. Nancy Mitford, Evelyn Waugh, Julian Fellowes and Oscar Wilde for pure British wit and aristocratic indulgence.


9) How should women dress and act to fit into aristocratic circles?
Ignore fashion trends and stick with the classics. (Skinny jeans belong on Kate Moss not on Kate Middleton.) Instead, learn to love cashmere and tweed. Buy a copy of Debrett’s and study your etiquette. Table manners can make or break your social standing, so memorize the proper way to eat peas and the correct direction to pass the port.


10) What’s next for you?

I’m working on a book entitled “In Defence of the Princess” – exploring the princess archetype that so many girls cling to and the redeeming qualities/life lessons that can be gleaned from fictional and modern-day princesses.

 

For more information go to Jerramy’s website and buy here book here.

Celebrities prepare to take part Breast Cancer Care’s Pink Ribbonwalk to support people with breast cancer

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High profile celebrities are lacing up their walking boots and preparing to take part in Breast Cancer Care’s Pink Ribbonwalk sponsored by Santander in association with woman&home, at four different UK locations, in May and June 2011.

Each Pink Ribbonwalk event starts and finishes at beautiful and exclusive country manors. The 10 or 20 mile walking routes will take you through some of the most magnificent British countryside including access to private grounds usually closed to the public.

Kaye Adams, is gearing up for the 10 mile walk-a-thon at Scone Palace, Perthshire. Denise Van Outen will be hiking 20 miles at Petworth house, West Sussex. Jessica Fox (who plays Nancy Hayton in Hollyoaks) will lead the charge at the Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire event, and Penny Lancaster-Stewart and Denise Lewis will walk at the Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire Pink Ribbonwalk.

With one person in the UK diagnosed with breast cancer every 10 minutes, sadly most of us will know someone affected by this cruel disease. Why not take part in a Pink Ribbonwalk and show your support for a loved one whilst enjoying a fun filled afternoon walking with friends and family, visit www.pinkribbonwalk.org.uk or call 0870 145 0101.

It costs just £30 to register and walkers are required to raise a minimum of £175 worth of sponsorship to help fund Breast Cancer Care’s vital support services. Put into context that could be a £10 donation from just 18 relatives, colleagues or friends.

Choose from 10 and 20 mile route options at the following locations:
Saturday 14 May 2011 – Scone Palace, Perthshire Pink Ribbonwalk
Saturday 21 May 2011 – Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, Pink Ribbonwalk
Saturday 4 June 2011 – Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire, Pink Ribbonwalk
Saturday 11 June 2011 – Petworth House, West Sussex Pink Ribbonwalk

Enjoy a village fete style celebration when you cross the finish line, including a medal, BBQ, message and entertainment!

Breast Cancer Care’s Ambassador Denise Lewis said:

“I loved walking the 10 mile route at Breast Cancer Care’s Pink Ribbonwalk last year. I took part in memory of my grandmother and it was a really special and uplifting day. Gather your friends, family and colleagues to sign up and make the 2011 events the biggest yet! Breast Cancer Care’s essential information and support services ensure that no one faces a breast cancer diagnosis alone.”

Register now at www.pinkribbonwalk.org.uk or call 0870 145 0101.

All funds raised from the Pink Ribbonwalk sponsored by Santander in association with woman&home enable Breast Cancer Care to fund essential information and support services such as its helpline, discussion forums, local events, one-to-one support sessions and website, so that no one need face a breast cancer diagnosis alone.

Star Studded Event Honouring our Heroes

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The Inaugural Soldiering On Awards and Unique Charity Auction in Honour of BLESMA (British Limbless Ex-Service Men’s Association) on Sunday 20 March 2011

In the presence of TRH The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and showbiz stars such as Hayley Mills, Tom Keane, Rick Wakeman and many other stars attending the first ever “Soldiering On Awards” organised by Members of the Armed Forces, BLESMA and friends from the world of Media and Entertainment.The awards will recognise the courage and determination of those servicemen and women severely injured in the line of duty and aim to reward those behind the scenes, who help them on their long and challenging road to recovery.

Hosted by Gloria Hunniford and Paul Martin at the prestigious The Savoy, London, the star-studded event will bring together celebrities, industry professionals, BLESMA supporters and members to show their support for our troops, and the life changing work BLESMA do to better the future for many amputees in the UK.

The awards categories will include: Fundraising Endeavour, Supportive Family, Volunteer of the Year, Sporting Endeavour of the Year, The Bowman Award, Making a Difference, Against All Odds, BLESMA Lifetime Commitment.

In each category, the awards recognise the bravery and professionalism of the men and women working in today’s Armed Forces around the world and honour incredible individuals such as Royal Marine Commado Mark Ormrod, who has fought back despite losing both his legs and right arm. They also celebrate members of the public who in various ways work diligently to support our servicemen and women.

The evening will commence with a champagne reception, presentations by BLESMA and music by the Swinging Blue Jeans band. Guests will also enjoy music from the Brass Quintet of the 1st Battalion The Coldstream Guards Band and a special performance from virtuoso rock violinist, Analiza Ching. There will be an auction including 12 magnificent “Money Can’t Buy” prizes, with the aim of raising much needed funds for BLESMA. The money will continue to help BLESMA provide support to rebuild the lives, confidence and self-belief of our injured servicemen and women, by giving them the opportunity to participate in support networks and rehabilitation programmes.

Jerome Church, BLESMA General Secretary added, “I cannot tell you how moved we have been by the offers of help from all of the armed forces and volunteers from the Soldiering On Awards committee. These awards celebrate our servicemen and women and members of the community who work together to help rebuild their lives. We hope the incredible and unique auction prizes will raise money to improve the lives of people who deserve all the help and support we can offer them”.

Florence and the Machine backs new FOUR PAWS campaign film

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Florence and the Machine has lent its support to FOUR PAWS’ campaign calling on EU decision makers to keep their promise to ban the sale of animal-tested cosmetics, by allowing their haunting track Cosmic Love to be used as the soundtrack to a new thought provoking film, launched last week.

Animal testing for cosmetic ingredients is now banned in the EU. However, some tests for cosmetic ingredients can still be performed on animals outside the EU and those ingredients are imported for sale in EU products (until 11 Mar 2013). There is now a serious threat to this deadline which could be postponed by years.

The thought provoking and shocking film’s below and it’s worth watching.

A forthcoming European Commission decision is expected soon on whether to recommend a delay to its implementation due to alternatives not having been developed or validated in time.

“Our film is a reminder that the ugly face of animal tested cosmetics has not gone away and there can be no excuse for testing cosmetics on animals wherever in the word it takes place. We want to see an end to animal-tested cosmetics and that’s what EU politicians promised. If they break that promise by delaying the sales ban, they will be sanctioning the silent suffering of animals in countries such as the United States and China.” – Marie-Claire Macintosh from FOUR PAWS.

The new viral film has been launched across the EU in conjunction with a petition calling on EU decision makers not to delay the ban.

To sign the petition: https://www.secureconnect.at/4paws.org.uk/petition/110302/index.php