Highlights

The 2016 Living Advent Calendar kicked off early in Falaise Square when the children of Badgemore Primary School entertained the audience with some festive classics in front of the Christmas tree before Dave Eggleton in his “Cavalier” alter ego welcomed the audience and talked about Henley’s history. Mayor Brookes then introduced the night’s surprise performer, the Youthful Orchestra.

Partners for the night Spice Merchant provided some delicious food and also kindly donated an afternoon tea for two to the raffle. With the night’s cause Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice providing some fun children’s toys bundles, lots of tickets were sold.

“Whilst there were some difficulties with practicalities tonight, hopefully that did not impact upon people’s enjoyment of the event tonight, the content of the night was what the Living Advent is all about for me” said organiser Richard Rodway. “It was great to see the children having the opportunity to perform in front of the Christmas tree, and the Youthful Orchestra are a lot of fun, packed full of local folk, again having an opportunity to perform in front of a good and enthusiastic audience”. “We really appreciate everyone’s spirit and generosity, and we raised more money for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice tonight than we have done on any opening night since I have been involved in the event, and that’s before the proceeds of the cake stall run by the children of Valley Road Primary tonight, so that’s a great effort”.

Night 2 of the Living Advent will be staged in Friday Street outside Boatique and Hot Gossip, amidst the Henley Christmas Fayre. Fundraising for the night will be for Sue Ryder Nettlebed Hospice and whilst the performer won’t be revealed until 6:15pm, it is confirmed that it will be a new act to the event.

“A very big thank you to Richard Pinches of Meadow Farm Studios for being our photography for the evening. More pictures to follow. You might just spot yourself!”

Every evening Dec 1^st - 24^th, 6:15 to 6:45pm

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