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One of Henley on Thames’ hidden gems, the substantial gardens of Simmons & Son were delightfully illuminated by the Living Advent’s Hugh Legh, to create a very atmospheric setting for the surprise 9^th performer of this year’s Living Advent.

Another large audience came to support the night’s charity Chiltern Centre, who had some helium balloons to the delight of the children. The hosts served warm mulled wine, and partners for the evening, local accountants Knox & Eames, kindly supplied some mince pies.

Councillor Sam Evans welcomed the audience before Paul Barratt from Chiltern Centre talked about the charity. Richard Rodway then opened the 9^th Advent door, Simmons’ & Sons back door, from which Muffin Hurst emerged, along with around 20 members of her Henley Children’s Theatre. The children enthusiastically delighted the audience with some festive classics ranging from “Away in a manger” to “Santa Claus is Coming to town” via “Pantomime” and “Let it snow”.

Sam Evans and Richard Rodway then presided over the raffle, ably assisted by some children from the audience. Prizes had kindly been donated by Knox & Eames and Gorvett & Stone.

Day 10 now takes us back to Falaise Square, where Robinson Sherston will be partnering, and where the Living Advent will be fundraising for Thames Valley Animal Welfare, another of the charities supported by the Mayor this year.