The Clink Charity Ball
Innovative prisoner rehabilitation initiative, The Clink Charity, held its annual fundraising event – The Clink Charity Ball 2017 – earlier this year at the Lancaster London on Hyde Park. Keeping with its mission and the charity’ s ethos of developing longterm careers in the Hospitality Sector, students from Lambeth College, Westminster Kingsway College and London South East Colleges assisted in both the kitchen as well as front of house.
Guests were welcomed with a champagne reception and a selection of canapés created and served by Clink Events. This was followed by a dinner designed by the Lancaster’ s Executive Chef, Ben Purton. This included Smoked Norwegian Fjord Trout, omelette roll and blackend prawns; Goats’ Cheese wrapped with pistachio; Roast Welsh Rump of Lamb with mint & pea Mash; Wild mushroom and Smoked Applewood Cheddar parcel and for dessert, Carmelised Vanilla Bean Mousse.
Above and Below: Students assisted with front-of-house as well as in the kitchen.
One of the highlights of the evening was Clink graduate Andrew who delivered an awe- inspiring speech. He shared the life-changing journey he has been on thanks to the support of The Clink Charity. He spoke of how the charity’ s hospitality training programme enabled him to secure a chef position at a well-known global company in London thus breaking the cycle of crime and transforming his life.
The evening raised a staggering £ 30,000, funds that will be used to continue the excellent work of The Clink Charity.
MKE
Rose Fashion Show
On 26th January and organised by VISITKINGSTON, The Rose Theatre in Kingston staged an evening of catwalk fashion from local retailers, including John Lewis, L K Bennett, Monsoon, East and Jigsaw plus many more. The Show featured the latest men and women’ s wear collections modelled very professionally by Kingston College students.
The show was presented by Caroline Macleod-Smith of Style Bureau which offers personal styling for men and women as well as shopping, wardrobe makeovers, colour analysis, corporate styling and styling parties. With collections including work, weekend, occasion and evening wear, there was something wearable for almost everyone in the audience.
Before and after the catwalk, a Boutique Village was set up in the foyer with pop up shops as well as a makeup artist and pampering area. Talented local designers provided stunning accessories including designer hats, vintage jewellery and handbags. All guests received a luxury goody bag made from recycled parachute silk, compliments of Elvis & Kresse, plus two free drinks at the bar. What was not to love?
Proceeds from this well attended event help to support The Rose Theatre’ s diverse programme of drama, culture and learning opportunities.
LYNNE WARNER
Pop-up shops provided stunning accessories.
4 THE LONDON & UK DATEBOOK