Senior and Disabled Christmas Shopping Event

This year's Christmas Shopping Evening for senior and disabled shoppers proved a great success for all concerned.  The event which was held at Marlowes Shopping Centre on Tuesday 7th December, gave pensioners and shoppers with disabilities the opportunity to do their Christmas shopping without having to battle through crowds and enjoy the warmth and hospitality provided.

Volunteer Centre Dacorum did a wonderful job in arranging transport and organising volunteers to participate in this event, thereby continuing our successful partnership. Heather Allen from the Volunteer Centre said "you may be surprised to hear that some of those that attended have not been out of their homes since last year's shopping event"

Entertainment was provided by pupils from Leverstock Green Primary School who sang an array of traditional carols, Janice Carol and Leslie who performed an array of classic Christmas songs with a mix of pop and jazz tunes and the fabulous Peter King, who hosted the evening with music, singing and laughter. He even managed a couple of waltzes with some of the more enthusiastic shoppers. Peter is a firm favourite with the shoppers and has been performing at this event for a number of years.  Peter commented "I really enjoyed the event. The team at Marlowes Shopping Centre always makes me feel so welcome and really work hard at making the evening special for their customers".

Highlights included a fantastic free prize draw. Prizes up for grabs included a £250 Marlowes gift card, a £100 Marlowes gift card and a luxury Christmas hamper courtesy of M&S. The prizes were drawn by The Mayor, Roger M Taylor, who chatted with a large number of shoppers throughout the evening.      

In addition, the evening included a free tombola with an array of great prizes donated by retailers within Marlowes Shopping Centre and a free buffet.

"This evening is a regular fixture in our calendar" said Vince Williams, Marlowes Centre Director. "Fighting your way through the Christmas crowds can take the shine off the festivities if you are elderly or disabled. Our special evening is proved extremely popular and presents Marlowes with an ideal opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to our shoppers and local community groups.

For further information, please contact Eileen Gannon, Marketing Manager on 01442 413818 or Heather Allen, Manager of Volunteer Centre Dacorum.