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Wolverhampton theatre group teams up with Sikh Toy Appeal

A Wolverhampton theatre group has teamed up with the Sikh Toy Appeal to spread the message of joy and love this Christmas.

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Dennis Ffrench, Cllr Olivia Birch, Cllr Linda Leach, Alan Jones from Sikh Toy Appeal, Cllr Phil Page, Jaz Sidhu from Sikh Toy Appeal, John Denley, Director of public Health, and Rebecca Shepherd

Gazebo Theatre Company, based in Bilston have worked alongside the toy appeal to provide free Christmas gifts for underprivileged and vulnerable children in the community.

The charitable cause supports children in families who may otherwise not receive any presents.

Gazebo's Dennis Ffrench, the longest playing black pantomime dame in the UK, and Rebecca Shepherd will be helping Santa deliver his toys alongside their fun, interactive panto workshops and shows.

The two groups will be visiting children across Wolverhampton and the Black Country.

Rebecca said: "“Christmas isn't just about presents, it's about being with people you love and creating magical experiences and memories that last a lifetime.

"Working with Gazebo and the Sikh Toy Appeal this year, we've been able to do just that with so many families and young people.

"It gives us so much joy to see the smiles on their faces and spread the message of Christmas."

Last Sunday Gazebo and the Sikh Toy appeal presented gifts to young people and parents at St Chad's Church, Bilston.

They also had support from local councillors Olivia Birch, Linda Leach and Phil Page, who came along to the church to get involved.

Dennis added: "“I have been performing Professional Pantomimes for 25 years. Working with Gazebo and the Sikh Toy Appeal feels like the pinnacle of my career.

"Not only is it a big thank you to a community who have supported me throughout the year, but it brings so much joy, love and hope into the lives of so many people.

"Gazebo and the Sikh Toy Appeal are the personification of community spirit, and I feel privileged and honoured to be part of that journey.”

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