Local stars to headline fundraising gala for Stoke Newington community

Rob Deering. Photograph: Piers Allardyce

Comedian Rob Deering and legendary poet Tim Wells will top the bill at a fundraiser for Stoke Newington’s artists and businesses next week.

The Fabulous FUNdraiser, organised by local traders, takes place in the atmospheric Old Church on Friday 21 June from 6.30pm.

As well as entertainment, guests will be treated to food from restaurants Yum Yum, La Rosetta, The Good Egg and Schnitzel Forever – all included in the ticket price.

People can also bid online for auction prizes donated by local businesses, including meals, massages, theatre tickets and haircuts.

Heidi Early, chair of Stoke Newington Business Association (SNBA), is helping to organise the evening.

She said: “We’re on a mission to raise funds so that we can run more art-based events in Stoke Newington and keep this quirky, creative and independent community alive.

“The businesses here aren’t complacent – we’re doing everything we can to increase footfall; we run events year-round and launched a website to help people discover the area.

“Throwing a fabulous party will not only help the business association to raise vital funds, it’s also chance to thank our amazing customers and get to know them better.”

Tickets start at £20 and include a buffet and welcome drink.

Rob Deering is among the UK’s most sought-after headliners and is a regular at Edinburgh Fringe, Green Man and Latitude festivals. He has lived in Stoke Newington with his family for 25 years.

Early said: “We’re so grateful to Rob Deering for agreeing to perform – he’s bringing his guitar too! – and to the legendary Tim Wells, who is sure to raise eyebrows.

“Thanks too go to the Old Church who have donated the space.”

To book tickets, or to take part in the online auction, head to seeyouinstokey.com/fabulous-fundraiser.