London Greek Radio

London Greek Radio held its Christmas Dinner & Dance on the first weekend of December, which was attended by dozens from the Greek Cypriot community and beyond.

With the emphasis on ‘community’, LGR management, staff and presenters integrated with listeners, family and friends at the Cypriot Community Centre in Wood Green to a full-house compliment.

As the evening began, a blessing was carried out by the Reverend Father Andreas Hadjisavvi, in the presence of the Reverend Father Iosif Paliouras, before the Nostalgia Greek Band took to the stage, to ‘warm-up’ the already excited attendees anxiously waiting for Greek-singing legend Giorgos Gerolymatos.

Giorgos Gerolymatos whips up the excitement…

Mr Gerolymatos was one of the most famous performers of the “New Wave” period of Greek music in the 70s, 80s and 90s.  He worked with other leading Greek performers such as Pario, Marinella, Voskopoulos, Dionisiou, Doukissa, Moscholiou, Sakellariou, Gavalas, Angelopoulos and many more.  He also participated in many Greek films.

During the one-night only exclusive performance, he performed a selection of his own charming classics to the eagerly-awaited patrons, before moving flawlessly to traditional Greek Laika, quickly filling the dance floor.

Long-standing LGR host Vasilis Panayi reflected on the radio station’s historic role in 35 years of broadcasting to London and beyond; then, in a unique ‘never-before’ exposition, he presented five Lifetime Achievement Awards.

The Award Trophies were presented to those, who in LGR’s history, contributed significantly to charity and to the station.

A surprise award was presented to LGR’s Managing Director John Kyriakides, during which, Mr Panayi fought back tears as he spoke about Mr Kyriakides continued unflinching commitment and support to the station and its listening communities.

The evening’s charming hosts Andrea Yerolemou and Yiannis Ioannou entertained those present and the evening concluded with the prize draw of the LGR Christmas Raffle, which included the top prize of a flight to Cyprus, courtesy of Cobalt Aero. Several other prizes were also presented to winners of the draw, with thanks from Commeris the Mediterranean food experts and Cocorico Italian Restaurant, as well as others.

The management and staff of LGR were grateful to the event’s sponsors, who made the evening possible; Caspian Lounge Sandwich Bar in North Finchley, Commeris UK Ltd the Mediterranean food experts, Panorama Greek Restaurant in Whetstone, S.Aspris & Son, Simon Fisher, and Taste of Cyprus Patisserie in Palmers Green.

LGR’s Managing Director, John Kyriakides said, ”It was a really lovely evening and everyone enjoyed themselves, eating, dancing and socialising.

He added, ”I really didn’t expect the award. It’s an absolute pleasure and a privilege to serve our communities through the medium of radio.”

Other Lifetime Achievement Award-winners on the night were; Maria Spyrou, who presented a show on LGR for over 25 years, providing advice to listeners on social benefits, as well as years of service to the Citizens Advice Bureau in Haringey; Former LGR Manager Kyriacos Tsioupras and his partner Pola Tsioupra for several years of service to LGR and the community; Former LGR News Editor Tasos Zachariades, who provided detailed and relevant up-to-date news to LGR’s communities for several years.

A huge thank you to Parikiaki and Eleftheria newspapers for their continued support and to Hellenic TV who kindly filmed our night which will be available to be seen on the London Greek Radio social media in the upcoming weeks.

Paintings will be available for purchase with 10% of the proceeds donated to the Mayors Special Fund Appeal, making a difference for mental health

This Xmas, why not treat that special person to an original, abstract painting

On Thursday 14th December Bellway Homes is hosting an exhibition of captivating, vibrant paintings by local artist, Michelle Janes.

The Mayor of Haringey will open the exhibition at Bellway Homes’ prestigious new development in Highgate, which from 6.30 promises a festive evening of culture, carol singers and canapés.

Paintings will be available for purchase with 10% of the proceeds donated to the Mayors Special Fund Appeal, making a difference for mental health.

Highgate Court, Bellway Homes, Bishops Road, Highgate, London N6 4HS.

The island of Cyprus has concluded the first round of auditions that will decide who will represent them in the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest in Lisbon. The new approach focuses on fresh talent and budding vocalists to see who is right to enter the competition next year.

A limited number of entrants are chosen to audition for the three-member judges; composer Alex Papaconstantinou (Alex P), choreographer Charis Savva and Christer Björkman, producer of Swedish Eurovision selection Melodifestivalen. The first round of auditions was completed in November resulting in the panel’s task of whittling down the number of applicants to 23.

As previously mentioned on LGR, Alex P is a well-known producer of Greek-Swedish origin and has co-written hits for Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez, Enrique Iglesias and many more. He is known in Eurovision circles with a few Euro-stompers under his belt, including Ivi Adamou’s ‘La La Love’ in 2012 and Sarbel’s ‘Yasou Maria’ in 2007. His most successful entry to date was for the Azerbaijan duo Aysel and Arash, which came third in 2009. He is responsible for composing the song which will represent Cyprus in Portugal next year. Cyprus’ visual director for last year, Charis Savva was responsible for Hovig’s ‘Gravity’ and has been invited to return to plan next May’s Cypriot performance.

The application procedure has triggered a great deal of excitement across Cyprus and from Cypriots living in the UK. The procedure is anonymous and participants are not expected to be revealed during the local heat stages.

Broadcasters CyBc announced that the Cypriot ”sing-off” will air in January 2018 and the judges will select the finalists who will take part in the Cypriot national final which will be aired on TV.

The overall winner, singing the Cyprus entry will be decided by both the public and a selected jury. The combination of these two sets of votes will determine the winner.

The Eurovision song is expected to be recorded weeks after the Cypriot song contest final and is likely to be released in March.

The Cypriot Eurovision delegation has said that they’re hoping that this new contest gets Cyprus into another Eurovision final.

LGR wishes Cyprus the very best of luck!

Picture Charis Savvas (left to right), Alex Papaconstantinou, Christer Björkman

Six-year-old UK Cypriot Andy Achilleos launched a justgiving fundraising page named Andy’s Wish to Walk and last month appeared on the BBC’s Children in Need television programme.

Andy has been accepted as a candidate for Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH). The aim is to improve spasticity (muscle stiffness) in his legs caused by brain damage at birth. The spasticity can be very painful and leads to excessive stiffness in his legs and causes difficulties with walking.

Last year the television show visited the London Centre for Children of cerebral palsy which support children with a condition like Andy’s. He appeared on the show last year following up what he’s been doing since then.

The brave young soul was with his mum Afrothedi, who explained the situation for Andy and the fundraising aspects of Andy’s cause.

”Andy has been given the okay to have a life-changing operation at Great Ormond Street, unfortunately it’s not all completely funded by the NHS so we’ve been fundraising for Andy, really fantastic community support, and the school that Andy attends have recently fundraised over 19,000”, she said.

Afrothedi further explained to giving money to Children in Need is important as it funds a centre that Andy attends.

”Fundraising the sessions Andy goes to and the specialists and professionals to help teach him to do everyday things like walking, sitting”, Afrothedi stressed.

Check out the Justgiving Page if you would like to make your pledge or donation and Gift Aid, by visiting the website: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/andyswishtowalk

St Andrew the Apostle School’s new 6th Form will have an academic focus with most of its curriculum featuring A-Level courses for students expecting to go to university.

Detailed plans for the 6th Form, which is due to open with brand new facilities at North London Business Park in September 2018, were unveiled on Thursday (16 November) at an Open Evening for Year 11 students and their parents.

Students were given the opportunity to discuss their subject choices, application process and other questions about life in a 6th Form with subject experts, teaching staff and representatives from the school’s sponsor, the Russell Education Trust. RET currently runs the highest achieving multi-academy in the country and has already opened two 6th Forms in Bristol and Essex.

RET’s 6th Form Advisor, Mr. Martin O’Sullivan, told a packed hall, ”Going the extra mile for 6th Form students will be an integral part of the RET package in which every possible support and opportunity is in place to ensure that each student looks amazing on an application form, whether for university, employment or other work-based training.

”Most of our courses will be A-Level courses, though we will be offering selected BTEC Level 3 courses with a greater practical element.”

He described the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to create a successful 6th Form and said the first priority would be the appointment of the best teachers for first-class teaching. He added that pastoral care was at the forefront of everything they do.

”Running alongside effective teaching, it is vital that we provide a crutch when things get difficult. Life can be incredibly stressful for both students, who have to deal with additional responsibilities and opportunities with the added confusion of greater freedom, and parents who have to ensure that their children are not burning the candle at both ends and ruining their chances of long term success for short term gains.”

Headteacher, Mr Rob Ahearn, said he was very proud of the progress made so far and was looking forward to building a vibrant, successful 6th Form which would inherit and build on many of the successful features of St Andrew the Apostle School. These included the high-quality of the teachers, belonging to an outstanding trust and being an inclusive school.

”As a Greek Orthodox secondary school, there is an emphasis on broad Christian values of forgiveness, responsibility, kindness and respect for others which leads to very high expectations in terms of behaviour and academic endeavour.

”We are an inclusive school where we hope even those joining us from elsewhere will quickly feel a part of the school. We may be smaller than some 6th Forms, but we believe that will mean that no one will be ignored or over looked,” stated Mr. Ahearn, adding that the new block will have outstanding facilities to provide a safe and comfortable working environment.

He stressed that St Andrew the Apostle 6th Form students would be setting an example to younger students and would be expected to dress appropriately for a working day ‘in the office’ as part of their preparation for their future aspirations and careers. They would ”enjoy a unique experience of leading the way in helping to build the 6th Form of the future.”

Founding student, Marianna Christodoulou, is hoping to study English Literature, Psychology and Philosophy & Ethics. She said, ”I want to stay on because everyone is so enthusiastic about establishing the new 6th Form. I love the family atmosphere, my friends, teachers – the whole ethos.”

Fellow Year 11 student, Guy Coker, who wants to go on to university to study maths, has visited other schools but is expecting to stay on too. He explained, “The wide variety of subjects and the dedication of the teachers means that it’s definitely worth taking the opportunity that is being offered at St Andrew.”

Deputy Headteacher and 6th Form Development Lead, Mr. Mike Michael, was delighted with the success of the evening and the interest shown by existing and external students in the new 6th Form.

”It’s been such a positive night, with so much enthusiasm from students and parents keen to make the right choices for the next stage of their education. We hope that many will be joining us for a 6th Form taster day on Friday 5 January,” he concluded.

Details about the new 6th Form, curriculum and application process can be found on the website: http://www.standrews6th.org.uk/

Nikki Christou, 13, is a UK Cypriot inspiring others through the power of social media, whose latest award come rubber-stamped by none other than 10 Downing Street. The social media star who video blogs her experience of living with life-threatening AVM (Arteriovenous Malformations) and uses digital platforms to share information on how to cope with a chronic illness, has received the Prime Minister’s daily Points of Light award which recognises outstanding individual volunteers – people who are making a change in their community.

Through talking about her condition, offering advice for people with deformities and delivering makeup tutorials, Nikki has attracted millions of views and over 250,000 subscribers. Her public display of bravery, despite undergoing 28 facial operations and 300 visits to hospital since being born, is inspiring each of her viewers and followers.

Additionally, with the help of her parents, she founded the ‘Butterfly AVM Charity’ that has so far raised £500,000 for research at Great Ormond Street Hospital and University College London.

Last year she was presented with a ‘Pride of Britain Award’ by Prime Minister Theresa May in Downing Street.

In a personal letter to Nikki, Prime Minister Theresa May said: ”By sharing your experience of living with Arteriovenous Malformations on social media and in online videos, you are an example of hope and positivity to each of your hundreds of thousands of fans, and particularly those who also have the condition. Your fundraising for the ‘Butterfly AVM Charity’ is having a transformational effect on the scientific research that is being undertaken in this field and you should be very proud indeed of achieving this at such a young age.”

Nikki said: ”I am really honoured to have been chosen for such an amazing award. My AVM has taught me to make the most of everyday. I started ‘The Butterfly AVM Charity’ to raise money to support and inform sufferers and their families about this rare illness and to establish potentially life-saving research. This could not have been achieved without the help of so many volunteers who I thank from the bottom of my heart. I also try to show people that facial differences and disabilities should not stop a person from enjoying their lives to the best of their ability and achieve their dreams without any prejudice. We are all imperfectly perfect in our own way. Close your eyes make a wish – open them and make that dream a reality.”

Points of Light are outstanding individual volunteers. Every week day the Prime Minister recognises an inspirational volunteer with the Daily Point of Light award.

First established by President George H. W. Bush in 1990, over 5,000 US Points of Light have been recognised in the USA. UK Points of Light was developed in partnership with the US programme and launched in the Cabinet Room at 10 Downing Street in April 2014.

Since then hundreds of people have been named Points of Light by the Prime Minister, highlighting an enormous array of innovative and inspirational volunteering across the length and breadth of Britain.

The UK Points of Light are fundraising, awareness raising, problem solving heroes who all had an idea they decided to make a reality. Their actions have changed lives and their stories are can inspire thousands more to get involved or start their own initiatives.

For the first time ever, Despina Miraraki will bring 30 years of craft expertise to London.

Her vast collection of tailor-made carpets will be available to browse and purchase, including traditional and modern varieties.

Date: 23rd November 2017

Location: Connaught Hotel, Carlos Place, Mayfair, London, W1K 2AL

Time: 18:30–21:00

RSVP and register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/exclusive-cocktail-event-invitation-worlds-best-handmade-carpet-company-tickets-39833356642

If you are unable to attend the launch event, the exhibition will run from 22nd to 26th November, open daily from 10am – 9pm.

Join us in the heart of London as we showcase the award-winning Miraraki carpet exhibition.

Founder Despina Miraraki has led the specialised industry for over three decades with a long list of achievements, including being named the best handcrafted carpet company globally and winning the Seven Star Carpet Gallery Award, the highest award for the pinnacle in luxury hospitality and lifestyle.

Her achievements to date include collaboration with award-winning designer Robert Cavalli, weekly TV exposure and production for leading hotel brands such as Hilton.

Guests will be welcomed by a cocktail reception and will have a chance to browse a display of masterpieces, from classic carpets created from wool and silk to modern designs such as Persian silks, Qum, Tabriz, Nain and Isfahan.

Enjoy a show of exquisite craftsmanship, meet with founder Despina Miraraki and treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind exhibition.

We hope to welcome you to the launch show in London!

Wishing you, a happy start to the holiday season

The Management and Staff of London Greek Radio would like to invite you to their Christmas Dinner & Dance, 2017. The start to the festive season we have live music and food on Saturday 2 December at 7 pm.

We are also excited to announce entertainment for this evening includes Giorgos Gerolymatos, all the way from Greece, for a 1 night exclusive performance. Not to mention live music by Nostalgia Greek Band!

Events like this offer the chance for our station to come together with the community and enjoy a fabulous evening. Moreover, through these events we are able to renew and build a good relationship with both our listeners and the companies which work alongside us.

In 2017, our time has also been spent putting together events, such as this one, where all members of our community could come and celebrate our culture together.

Join us at the Cypriot Community Centre, Earlham Grove, Wood Green, N22 5HJ.

Tickets £30, £35, for more information and Tickets please call LGR on 0208 349 6950

7 pm ‘Till Late

We look forward to seeing you all there.

Wishing you, a happy start to the holiday season.

The event is sponsored by Caspian Lounge Sandwich Bar in North Finchley, Commeris UK Ltd the Mediterranean food experts, Panorama Greek Restaurant in Whetstone with Mediterranean cuisine at its best. Aspris & Son, the wine, beer & spirits merchants, Simon Fisher with a 50 year experience as a loss assessor, Taste of Cyprus in Palmers Green for a wide range of breads, sweets & pastries.

GREECE vs Croatia for World Cup Playoff First-Leg in Zagreb tonight, 7:45 pm kick-off UK time. Euro 2004 champions are only hours away from the first match at Stadion Maksimir looking to continue their perfect record in World Cup play-offs.

Greece, who finished behind Belgium in Group H, are hoping that captain Vasilis Torosidis and central defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos are fit.

Kostas Manolas is suspended for the first leg due to a fair play violation.

Michael Skibbe the German coach has compensated by calling up two additional defenders: Panathinaikos’ Dimitris Kolovetsios and SPAL’s Marios Oikonomou.

The second leg in Athens is on Sunday 12th November and we will all know by then whether the Greek colours will be a feature at the World Cup next summer.

Greece World Cup Playoff Squad

Goalkeepers: Orestis Karnezis, Stefanos Kapino, Giannis Anestis

Defenders: Sokratis Papastathopoulos, Kostas Manolas, Kyriakos Papadopoulos, Vassilis Torosidis, Kostas Stafylidis, Marios Oikonomou, Dimitris Kolovetsios, Georgios Tzavellas, Panagiotis Retsos, Charalampos Lykogiannis

Midfielders: Andreas Samaris, Panagiotis Tachtsidis, Giannis Maniatis, Zeca, Alexandros Tziolis, Dimitrios Kourmpelis, Kostas Fortounis, Dimitris Pelkas, Anastasios Bakasetas, Lazaros Christodoulopoulos

Forwards: Kostas Mitroglou, Dimitrios Diamantakos, Giannis Gianniotas, Apostolos Vellios

The Labour Party’s ‘Friends of Cyprus Group’ was launched on Tuesday evening at an event held in the UK Parliament, in the presence of the party’s leader Jeremy Corbyn and a number of Labour MPs.

The initiative for the creation of the group belongs to Vassilis Mavrou, who said that he aim is to ”create closer bonds between Labour MPs and Cypriots, both in the UK and in Cyprus.” He noted that Jeremy Corbyn’s support was a catalyst for the launch of the group.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn

In his address, Corbyn said that he represents a constituency that includes a huge number of Cypriots, both of Greek and of Turkish ethnical background, and that in 1974 he remembers trying to help Cypriots arriving to London as refugees following the invasion by Turkey.

”The contribution made to our communities and our lives by those people is really incredible,” commented the Labour Party leader.

He went on to say that there must be a reunification of Cyprus and a resumption of the collapsed talks.

”Campaigning for Cyprus and having a sense of responsibility towards Cyprus is very important to me. I recognise that the UK is a guarantor power and I want a Labour government to ensure that we fulfil our obligations, to ensure that this means the island of Cyprus gets reunified,” he added.

The first UK Cypriot MP Bambos Charalambous said that there is still hope for a solution, despite the collapse of the talks in Crans Montana. He added that during his recent visit in Cyprus, he realised that Cypriots are worried about the chances to solve the Cyprus problem as with the elections coming up in January, the timing is not ideal.

The Cypriot MP also said that the Labour Party Friends of Cyprus needs to put more pressure on Boris Johnson and the Foreign Office to support Cyprus.

The coordinator of the event and MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, Catherine West, said that the Labour Party will support Cyprus in its efforts to find a just and viable solution.

On her behalf, the hostess of the event, MP Kate Osamor, said she is proud to be part of this newly formed group which aims to take responsibilities and to speak on behalf of the community.

Joan Ryan, MP for Enfield North, said that her constituency is a fantastic example of how Turkish and Greek Cypriots work and live together. “The two communities have more in common than divides them,” she added.

Other MPs that were present and spoke in support of Cyprus and the new group were Angela Rayner, Stephen Doughty, Steve McCabe, Joan Ryan, Roger Gossif, Carolyn Harris, Hugh Gaffney and Caroline Flint.