Stars Turn Out for London Tinsel and Tails Fundraiser

Comedian Bill Bailey and Call the Midwife’s Helen George joined over 200 people for a fundraiser in Hammersmith, West London to help raise money for abused and neglected animals last night as The Mayhew Animal Home held its third annual fundraising event, Tinsel and Tails, at St Paul’s Church in London.

The guests were wined and dined during a fun-filled festive evening of entertainment including a luxury celebrity hosted auction and raffle with a fantastic selection of prizes including holidays to Morocco, the South of France, and a solid silver bracelet and earrings, from Andrew Prince, a designer who has made jewellery for Downton Abbey. He donated the items in memory of his dog Gooseberry who sadly passed away.

Bill, who has five rescue dogs, a cat, some pigeons, a parrot and a snake, said: “This is a fantastic event which raises awareness of the plight of rescue animals. When we got our rescue dogs they were just skin and bone but we helped them make a full recovery. I’m so glad we have the Mayhew to help rescue pets like these. They do a magnificent job.”

Photography by Bonnie Baker

Helen George and actor Peter Egan was amongst those performing readings during a fun-filled festive evening of entertainment to help neglected and abandoned pets. Screen siren, Sylvia Syms – now 80-years-old – also gave a reading alongside her daughter, Beatie Edney, also an actress.

Sylvia is a lifelong supporter of the Mayhew and recently adopted a dog called Bunny, who came into the rescue centre with a distressing skin condition. She is now making a full recovery. The Mayhew’s four legged friends – past and present – were out in force on the red carpet.

Volunteer Awards were awarded in ten categories including foster carer of the year which went to Kevin and Irene Barrett. Outstanding contribution went to Laressa Kelly.