Cracker of a people’s Christmas party for Islington pensioners

Published: 24th December, 2010
by PETER GRUNER

THE familiar voice and the twinkly eyes were a dead give-away at least for some guests who identified the mystery Santa Claus at the Islington pensioner’s Christmas party on Wednesday afternoon.

Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn MP was resplendent in red hat and coat but already sporting a fine beard was there any need for the white facial camouflage?

More than 100 pensioners tucked into a traditional Christmas lunch at the Assembly Hall, opposite the Town Hall, hosted by a beaming Labour leader Catherine West.

Councillor West and her exec­utive colleagues even became attentive waitresses and waiters for the event giving real meaning to the term “serving the borough.” 

It was all part of a “people’s party” for pensioners, an alternative to the usual champagne affair for the borough’s knobs and snobs. 

Council staff – including many who may be facing possible redundancy next year – also volunteered to help with the party.

Chairman of the Islington Pensioners’ Forum George Durack thanked members of the council for an excellent lunch.

“We know the council will be forced to make some difficult decisions over the next year,” he said. 

“But providing and serving pensioners with a free Christmas lunch was very generous gesture. We’re very grateful and I know everyone has had a  great time. 

“Thanks also to Jeremy Corbyn who made a marvellous Santa.”