Burnham coronation tea party doubles as a 'Big Help Out' to aid Ukraine

A Coronation tea party in Burnham will raise money for Thames Hospice and Aid for Ukraine this weekend.

Burnham United Reformed Church will host a ‘Cuppa for the King’ on Sunday, May 14.

The event will coincide with the themes of the coronation weekend, namely ‘The Big Lunch’ and ‘Big Help Out’.

Event organiser, Elizabeth Duff said: “The coronation means continuity, respect and history and we wanted to recognise and celebrate it in a modern way and that helps others.

“We want to bring the community into our lovely church and raise funds for vital charities.”

The event, organised by Elizabeth Duff, church secretary, Tracey Brookes and Minister Nigel Douglas will take place at 2.30pm.

Various stalls will sell home-baked goods and Ukrainian items.

A unique collection of bags designed and produced by two young brothers from Ukraine who are now safely settled in Aberdeenshire will also be sold on the day.

The bags feature images representing Ukraine such as sunflowers, flags and architecture, as well as their British experience, with Queen Elizabeth, and the thistle of Scotland in the colours of Ukraine.

Pianist, Elizabeth Corbett will perform at the event, as will the Burnham Handbell Ringers, led by Cliff Blundell.

The event will also host an art competition for St Peters School in Burnham, where children will illustrate ‘what the coronation means to them’.

Elizabeth said: “The elders of our church wanted to do something to recognise and celebrate the coronation.

“When we heard the themes of the coronation weekend, we wanted to bring our community together and raise funds for the hospice and Aid for Ukraine.

“All the money raised will go to the charities, not the church. We’re just a venue with people who care.”