"The year 2020 has been a difficult year for everyone". This is a statement that can be heard everywhere as we approach the end of the year. It has been especially hard on charities and good causes.

So the reason for this page is to offer an opportunity to help out two good causes for which I am looking to support. The support is offered through the Military & Hospitaller Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem - the Grand Priory of Great Britain - of which I am the Grand Prior here in Great Britain.

Each year we hold several fundraising events, raising much needed funds for our designated home charity and our international charity. Our two current designated charities are St Catherine's Hospice (Lancashire) and SUROL (Society for the Uplift and Rehabilitation of Leprosy) which is a Leper Colony in Sri Lanka and which we have gifted over £50,000 to since 2013.

Each year we host a concert which usually raises upwards of £2000 for the charities. We know that all charities have been badly hit by a serious fall in donations and volunteering. In a bid to assist our cause, the choir Octavius, who usually provide us, free of charge, with an evening of festive music and readings, have kindly donated their time to provide this online 30 minute concert video see here: Octavius Christmas Concert 2020 . Enjoy!

It is hoped that in participating in the online concert people might have a cause to reflect on what Charles Dickens wrote in his novel of 1843, "A Christmas Carol':

Please enjoy the video and get into the festive spirit. In doing so, please also think about supporting us as generously as you are able. All funds raised will be split equally between the two named charities in the early New Year.

Thank-you.

Anthony Dickinson