Remembering in Rotherhithe

A picture tweeted by the Dean of Southwark who gave the final blessing

To the Albins Memorial Garden on the edge of Southwark Park for the annual outdoor Christmas Memorial Service, the 19th such event put on by our community-minded local firm of funeral directors, attended by hundreds of local people, the clergy of all denominations, the Mayor, the Leader of the Council, representatives of the opposition party, Sir Simon Hughes and the Pearly King and Queen.

We enjoyed the familiar mixture of prayers by the local clergy, community carol singing, the opportunity to remember loved ones with stars on the Christmas tree, beautiful singing by professional singers, a magnificent firework display to conclude, all followed with traditional Albins generosity by hot soup, mince pies, and bread pudding for the thousand or so people who attend this unique community event.

A big thank you to Jon, Simon and the whole Albins team for a meticulously planned and executed event, which brings comfort and hope to troubled hearts at Christmas time, when the loss of loved ones is often felt most acutely.