Industry support enables charity to launch new Virtual Christmas Event

Carols from St BridesNewstrAid Carols from St Brides

NewstrAid, the charity which supports people working in the sale and distribution of newspapers and magazines in the UK is launching its very first virtual event this Christmas thanks to support from the news trade.

Mike Mirams, CEO for NewstrAid said “As the current coronavirus restrictions mean that it is impossible to host our usual carol service at St Brides Church this year, we have decided to create our very first virtual event which we hope will mean even more friends and supporters will be able to log in and join us to kick off the festive season!”

With sponsors including wholesalers, publishers and distributors, the special event will be premiered on Monday 7th December at 4.30pm and will include carols and Christmas music from the famous St Brides Choir along with festive readings by colleagues from the industry including Ian Hislop (Private Eye & Have I Got News for You). It is free to attend with an opportunity to donate to NewstrAid during the event.

Those supporting the initiative include:
Principal Sponsors: Menzies Distribution, NFRN, Reach Plc, NewsTeam.
Event Sponsors: Smiths News, Mail Newspapers, Inter-Send, The Telegraph.
Supporters: Willis News.

Thanks also go to St Brides Church for providing the music for the event.

Everyone from the industry is invited to register to attend via Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/2HuEjrQ and once registered, will receive a link to watch the event as well as a programme and carol sheet to join in with the carols if they wish!

Mike Mirams added, “We hope that as many people as possible will be able to join us at the event premiere on December 7th at 4.30pm but those who can’t make that time or date will be able to access the broadcast at any time up to Christmas day using the link.”

The event will last approximately 40 minutes. For more information download the flyer here.

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For Media information contact: Lindsay Rule; lindsay@newstraid.org.uk

About NewstrAid
NewstrAid is a charity which aims to provide welfare for people who are, or have been, employed in the selling and distribution of newspapers and magazines in the UK and who find themselves in hardship. This includes their immediate family and dependants who are in need or in distress. The charity has been in existence for over 180 and counts Charles Dickens amongst its presidents. www.newstraid.org.uk