Let’s start with Tim Henman. Meeting him was certainly a highlight of my week, but seeing the impact of the Tim Henman Foundation grant on Raynes Park High School was phenomenal. Applause from around the borough could be heard as Raynes Park High became the first state school in the country accredited as a Tim Henman Foundation/BECSLink Community.

Tim Henman OBE, retired tennis champion, seemed pleased to be on familiar territory. "It's great to be back in the region, as I went to school at Reeds and attended the David Lloyd Centre. This day is all about the children. I like to think they can achieve great things in the future."
Entering the school, It was apparent, that i'd never appreciated the space and resources that Raynes Park High offer their students. However, a tour around the school with their incredibly dynamic and enthusiastic Head; Kirsten Heard, made it crystal clear. 

From enviable sports fields, mad science workshops and even opera by the Tenors Unlimited - it was an absolute treat of a day. Although admittedly, it was even more of a treat having Tim's arm stuck around my waist while photos were taken. 

In the same week was another momentous charity event at The All England Lawn Tennis Club. It was the Wimbledon Foundation's annual celebration of the great work achieved by the many charities it supports.

I attend a lot of functions, but this room was filled with guests I hold great admiration for. From the Mayor of Merton herself to the Directors of the AELTC, MP Stephen Hammond, the Chairman of Wimbledon Village Adrian Mills, the CEO of Wimbledon Common Simon Lee, and Jenny Harwood from Jigsaw4U who are current finalists for the Charity Film Award. Plus the heads of the 65 charities supported by the Wimbledon Foundation. 

After photos by the trophies I snuck to the dressing up area of Victorian tennis attire and had great fun with Karine Torr, Editor of Darling magazine, putting on bonnets and trying to play croquet whist everyone was being civil drinking bubbles. 

It’s quite mind-blowing how many local charities are supported by the Wimbledon Foundation. I try my best to get to know and support those I can on social media, but this event displayed the enormity of how much good work is done supporting the most vulnerable residents in our beloved home town. 

I was disappointed not bump in to SPEAR London who support those sleeping rough in Merton and Richmond, who who caught my eye on Instagram during the freeze only last week. However, I've heard they will be playing in Centre Court Shopping Centre on 7th April and I’ll certainly be there giving them all my support.

As we enter April, the countdown begins with the Mayor of Merton's Masquerade Charity Ball on the 28th. There are a few tickets left for those who would like to celebrate the end of term for one of the most wonderful and glamorous Mayors Merton has ever had and I can't wait to dance with her. E-mail: mayor@merton.gov.uk for ticket information. 

For now, wishing everyone a wonderful Easter with friends and family or even just to enjoy the blossom about to burst this bank holiday.