PEOPLE in Evenwood have done what they always do for a good cause by rallying round to put on two community Christmas parties.
On Wednesday, December 7, village caterer Kimberley Clark is using her skills to put on a free festive lunch for older people in Evenwood Workingmen’s Club at noon. Businesses and residents have donated their time and goods to make sure the annual event takes place.
Then on Saturday, December 10, the club is hosting a festive children’s disco when some 150 gifts worth £10 each will be handed out, along with sweets and chocolates. There’ll also be party food and drinks. It costs £2 per child with the money being set aside to help fund next year’s event, which also relies on locals to donate cash.
Ms Clark, who made and delivered 11,000 free meals to elderly people in her community during lockdown, said: “People in the village are always fantastic for a charitable cause. So many people have come forward to help.”
Villager Andrew Robinson even donated his birthday money, she said. “He just knocked on my door and said, ‘you can have the money – put it to good use’,” she added. “People in the community have donated raffle prizes and we all know people are feeling the pinch. Even if they aren’t able to donate, some are helping on the day. My hairdresser has scrubbed out her diary for the day to help.”
The raffle funds gifts for the children’s disco. Ms Clark has thanked the main sponsors who include Alison Stoker from Evenwood Workingmen’s Club, Graham’s Logs, Jane Appleby of Brookside Garage, Stephen Robinson and Andrew Robinson. Charlotte Sanderson, from party business The Queens Bow, is setting up the room for free.
She is also raising cash for Bishop Auckland boy Georgie Dobson, 3, who was born with a syndrome that has taken all the fingers from one hand. His family need to raise £12,000 to buy him a bionic arm.
Also thanked for helping at the Christmas party are entertainer Jan Vickers and community champions Steve Collier, John Bailey and Laura, from Sainsburys, Tescos and Morrisons respectively.
Meanwhile, Evenwood club steward Alison Stoker has been dubbed “Mrs Christmas” for her part in organising the disco, which is on from 10am to 2pm.
She spends most of the year fundraising for the afternoon and looking out for two-for-one deals on toys and games to give as gifts.
Ms Stoker said: “It’s for all ages up until about 14. I match all the presents to how old the children are so everyone gets something that’s right for their age.
“Everyone’s looking forward to both events. If anyone wants to do anything to support the two events, no matter how small, we would love to hear from them.”
To donate raffle prizes and cash or volunteer to help out, contact Kimberley Clark via Facebook.
