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