Local festive news you need to know about

UAL Postgraduate Design Shows: Wimbledon College of Arts – 1-6 Dec

Wimbledon College of Arts will be opening its doors to the public as Postgraduate students showcase more than 20 theatre design pieces. Taking inspiration from Shakespeare to legendary myths to renowned musicals and literary classics, join us in celebrating the next generation of theatre design talent. Pictured above is the work of Lily Monkman who says “My design practice are in set and installation design, sound and looking at the relationship between audience and performer.” The entry is free, and a private view (open to the public) takes place on December 5th. Book your tickets here.

Food collection in Merton – 25 Nov – 23 Dec

Merton Community Fridge launches a food collection and food waste campaign this Friday November 25th called Merton’s BIG Kitchen Cupboard Clearout. The #KitchenCupboardClearout is asking people and businesses to donate unwanted kitchen & bathroom cupboard items to Merton’s Community Fridge to reduce waste & help the community.

Teddington Torch Walk – 10 December

The 16 Days of Actions begins on 25 November, White Ribbon Day, also known as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women – and to end the campaign, all are invited to join join a torchlight walk. White Ribbon is a global campaign that encourages people, especially men and boys, to act and change the culture that leads to abuse. 

North Kingston and Norbiton parades’ host first-ever ‘shop local’ Christmas event – 3 Dec

From greengrocers and fishmongers to butcher and a pet shop, plus a host of more specialist shops, the two shopping parades are an integral part of the area’s character. Residents – and all from further away – are invited to shop local this Christmas and support the parades’ hosts’ first-ever one-day market on 3 December. To find out more, visit www.thewychelmkingston.co.uk.

Time for Joy at Christmas in St George’s

This Christmas more than 860 people are expected to spend the holiday as patients in St George’s and Queen Mary’s Hospitals, and around 3,500 staff are also expected to be working over the festive season. Support St George’s Hospital Charity in their campaign to raise funds to give patients and their loved ones a more festive stay over the Christmas season. Visit www.timeforjoy.org.uk/christmas to donate and help give patients and staff a more festive Christmas this year.

Joanna Lumley doubles your money!

Backed by Dame Joanna Lumley DBE FRGS and special friends who have pledged to match all donations up to £27,500, Kids For Kids has announced a Doubling Campaign to help children of Darfur this December. Darfur is out of sight – and conditions are the worst ever, worse even than in Somalia. Mothers are begging for help to feed their children. Starvation is a serious threat. To donate: www.kidsforkids.org.uk