With Christmas upon us I would like to take an opportunity to pause for thought and congratulate all those volunteers who have done so much over the past year, and particularly the past month, to support those less fortunate.
As Patron of local learning disabilities charity, Outreach 3 Way, I was delighted to attend their pantomime ‘Sherlock Bones’ at The Hawth theatre and was incredibly impressed at the way that they wrote, produced and staged such a fun production for everyone. My sincere congratulations not only to the talented participants in the production but also to the unsung heroes that are the charity’s hard working, tireless volunteers.
I was recently delighted to take part in the Santas on the Run charity event in which I was surrounded by Father Christmases of all ages and abilities dashing a mile through the centre of Crawley in aid of Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice. Chestnut Tree House is the only one of its kind throughout Sussex and I have seen firsthand the wonderful environment they provide for very sick children and their families at about the most distressing time one could imagine. By taking part, the Santas will be able to make it a very special Christmas for the children and families that the organisation supports.
Furthermore, I joined thousands of men from across Crawley and the country in joining the ‘Movember’ campaign in which moustaches were grown (or at least attempted!) to both raise funds targeted towards combating prostate cancer and to better raise awareness of the condition.
I believe that it is always important to take the time to support charities, both locally and nationally for the significant work they do to raise awareness and essential funds towards a specific issue.
My best wishes to all Crawley household this festive season and if I can be of assistance in the New Year then please never hesitate to contact me. Write to me at: Henry Smith MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA, email: henry.smith.mp@parliament.uk or call: 01293 934554