The new Mayor of Redbridge, Councillor Linda Huggett, will launch this year’s Mayor’s Appeal for Haven House Children’s Hospice and Saint Francis Hospice with a charity dinner at Papillon restaurant in Chigwell on Monday 12 June.

The event heralds a year of fundraising activities by Cllr Huggett for Haven House and Saint Francis Hospice after she chose the two charities for the Mayor’s Appeal for 2017/18 at the Annual Council meeting on Thursday 11 May.

The Mayor’s Appeal aims to encourage the public to raise funds for local causes throughout the municipal year. It is the first time a children’s hospice and adult hospice which serve the borough have both been selected to benefit from the appeal.

Cllr Linda Huggett, Mayor of Redbridge, said: “I am delighted that Haven House Children’s Hospice and Saint Francis Hospice are my chosen charities for this year’s Mayor’s Appeal.

“Both hospices have a very special place in my heart and provide vital support to families in our borough.

“I look forward to holding a number of exciting events for Haven House and Saint Francis Hospice throughout my year as Mayor. I hope as many people as possible can support these two wonderful charities.”

Mike Palfreman, Chief Executive of Haven House, said: “To be chosen for the Mayor’s Appeal is a rare honour and we are incredibly grateful to Cllr Huggett.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to raise funds and awareness for hospice services in our local area.

“We hope the public will generously support the Mayor’s Appeal so we can make an even greater difference to children and adults with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.”

On 12 June, Cllr Huggett will officially launch the appeal at 7pm with an evening of fine dining at Italian restaurant, Papillon, 13 Brook Road, Chigwell, Essex.

To book a place at the dinner please contact Mary O’Shea on 07748 155 680 or Joan Murphy on 07549 395 479, or e-mail [email protected]