Christmas and New Year 2020 is going to be different – absolutely no surprise there as 2020 has been “different” in so many ways. There is much positivity in the air with the lightening-fast development of a number of vaccines around the world but we have a long way to go until we are out of the “tiered” woods… and then there is Brexit!

But let’s not dwell on the uncertainty and instead let us all work our hardest at making this the “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” for our family, friends and those around us who are alone or at risk. One fantastic positive to come 2020 is the re-emergence of “community” – of people helping people. We know of street WhatsApp and text message groups helping each other out as well as more established community groups and we hope that this continues into 2021 and beyond!

Finlay Brewer have been long-term supporters of local charities; The Shepherds Bush Families Project and The Upper Room. Every December, we host a carol service at St Matthew’s Church in Masbro Road where in addition to the jovialities of the evening, we also help raise money for these charities. Unfortunately, for obvious reasons, this had to be cancelled this year but we are delighted to announce that the choir have recorded music to celebrate Christmas and we would like to share this with you: Click here to hear the St Matthew’s Church Choir Christmas recording. If you can do so, please assist the incredible good work these charities do with a donation or simply by sharing their details on your social media – every little helps – as a certain grocery chain says!

The Shepherds Bush Project : Based in Bulwer Street just north of Shepherds Bush Green – has a regular drop-in centre where families in housing need can go for play sessions and to make and meet friends. They also offer advice, counselling and even a toy and book library.

The Upper Room A local charity originally set up as a soup kitchen supporting the local homeless community which has developed into a dynamic charity offering a range of services to address the immediate and longer term needs of the homeless. Not only do they provide hot meals, clothing and toiletries but they also offer practical support, professional counselling and help securing employment.

All is good at Finlay Brewer. We have split ourselves into 3 teams, one of which works from home and the other two man our two offices so that each team is isolated from each other should there be an infection… so far so good... It is challenging at times and we, like you all, have become used to Zoom meetings and conference calls and helping each other out. We will all be glad to move on from 2020 but first, let us enjoy the Christmas period, albeit a bit different Christmas than usual.

I hope your Christmas plans have not been too disrupted and that you will be able to get together with some of your loved ones and forget about “annus covidus” for a few days. Please take care and I look forward to speaking to you all again in 2021.

Here’s wishing you all A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 Teresa Brewer