COMMUNITY
Peter Christianson, the founder and owner of “Greek City” has died. He was 76 years old.
Peter was extremely well-known across London’s Greek community; he sadly passed away at 2.30 am on Thursday morning, 9th August at Barnet General Hospital, after battling lung cancer for almost a year and a half.
Despite his struggle, he continued to spend as much time as he could in his shop in Myddleton Road, Wood Green, strongly advocating and supporting Greek Cypriot talent, even to his last breath.
The legendary founder of ‘Greek City’ in London managed his business originally-based in Green Lanes, Haringey in the 1980’s. He later relocated to Palmers Green, followed by South London. Until his deteriorating health, he was still seen recently at his premises in Myddleton Road, Wood Green. This was where locals and many from London’s wider Greek-Cypriot community would regularly stop for a chat and a coffee. Peter felt strongly about providing a service to the Cypriot community, well before the age of social media, the internet and DVDs.
Long-time friend Olympia Toumazides-Theodorou said, “…the community have been his family for 43 years, he lived and breathed Greek City”.
Peter was the first to bring Greek films and music videos to the UK and make them available on video and DVD. He was one of the first to promote and manage Greek bands and was known as ‘Mr Entertainment’ after staging a string of successful concerts in the UK, including one with Yiannis Parios and Haris Alexiou at the Royal Albert Hall. He sold concert tickets to ensure that events would be accessible to as many people as possible, even embracing online retail, complementing the interpersonal shine Peter and Olympia always had a reputation for.
Peter was the manager/agent of a whole host of singers/bands/musicians and well-known to be completely supportive of young Greek/Cypriot organic talent within our community.
LGR presenter Tony Neophytou said, “I’ve been to numerous events and seen first-hand, Peter inspiring artists to really believe in their stage-skills and personality; From the Chapman Brothers and Valentino Antos to the Grecian Kings and Tony Panayi, to name but a few. It’s inspiring, a trait to motivate others, something we should all do.”
Mr Christianson co-presented a music show on LGR with his side-kick Olympia, for a number of years. His sometimes cheeky sense of humour and natural radio chemistry appealed to listeners.
He was last heard on LGR two months ago on 6th June, which featured entertainer Bambas Shaouna; the comedy-act which appeared on ITV’s ‘Britain’s Got Talent’. Bambas was under Peter’s tutorage in the 1970’s and their enduring friendship for almost 50 years is all the more poignant in the context of Peter gaining his wings.
The fellow band-mates performed as the Aphrodite and Grecian Kings band in 1974; with Aphrodite being Peter’s deceased wife. In a rather lovely story, Peter explained how his “gift-of-the-gab” convinced Granada TV bosses into giving them a five-minute slot on ‘The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club’; one of the biggest TV shows of the time.
Peter always had that sparkle in his eye, happily announcing, “LGR – it’s our only radio station.”
He was born 26th December 1941 in the village of Lythrodondas and was educated at the English School in Nicosia.
Peter’s final request was to be laid to rest beside his parents in Lythrodondas. However, a very unique and special service for Peter will be held in London. These details will be made available once confirmed.
Peter, your memory will live forever in the history of the Cypriot community, along with your legacy and inspiration, which leaves an endemic mark on so many lives.
The staff and management of London Greek Radio share in the community’s grief at this sad time and we express our deep and sincere condolences to all of Peter’s family, friends and relations.
Peter Christianson 1941-2018
Article written by London Greek Radio
EUROVISION QUEEN Eleni Foureira is coming to LONDON for a one night only, exclusive performance.
London Greek Radio sponsors Eleni Foureira live performance at KOKO in Camden
On Friday 29th June Marquee Events International proudly present ELENI FOUREIRA live at Club Koko in Camden with full band and dancers.
On the night there will be various supporting acts including special guest Mixalis Theodosiou with his brand new single.
Doors open at 6:30 pm with first support act live at 7:30 pm.
Standard tickets are just £40 per person. Book yours now via ticketweb.uk. Standard and VIP tickets are also available via Flames restaurant in North Finchley.
This event is over 14’s.
Everyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Koko, 1A Camden High St, London NW1 7JE, the nearest tube station is Mornington Crescent
This event is sponsored by London Greek Radio and Flames Restaurant.
Article written by
London Greek Radio is pleased to announce that we will be joining thousands at this year’s Cypriot Wine Festival and Business Expo on Sunday 27th and Bank Holiday Monday 28th May.
The Cypriot extravaganza is estimated to have over 12,000 people attending over the two days. Parikiaki Newspaper hosts its second year at Lee Valley Athletics Centre, a modern spacious venue where companies, organisations, Cypriot produce and Cypriot wine will be exhibiting for the event’s 36th annual outing.
The excitement is steadily building, with hashtag #CyWineFest and #CyWineFest2018 trending as the event attracts all ages and backgrounds.
This year’s headlining act is sensational singer Konstantinos Argiros in his live London debut, hitting the stage in the evening. Supporting him is one of our own, British Cypriot singer Kyriacos Georgiou, recording artist and live performer in Greece and other countries.
Adding to the dynamic schedule are talented acts, Elizabeth Chapman, performing her latest offering, ‘Irthes Esi’, along with Tony Panayi and George Nicolaou.
LGR will be present on both days at our exhibition stand where you can find us, facing the stage, near the entrance.
Come and meet your favourite radio personalities, take part in our prize draws, and we’ll also have some giveaways! We are looking forward to seeing you there. Come and say hello!
Doors open at the slightly later time of midday and close at 11.00 pm on Sunday 27th and 11:30 am to 10.00 pm on Bank Holiday Monday 28th May 2018.
The address is at Lee Valley Leisure Complex, 61 Meridian Way, N9 0AR; you can purchase your tickets directly for the evening concert seating area, by visiting cypriotwinefestival.com
See you there!
Article written by
London Greek Radio is pleased to announce that we will be joining thousands at this year’s Cypriot Wine Festival and Business Expo on Sunday 27th and Bank Holiday Monday 28th May.
The Cypriot extravaganza is estimated to have over 12,000 people attending over the two days. Parikiaki Newspaper hosts its second year at Lee Valley Athletics Centre, a modern spacious venue where companies, organisations, Cypriot produce and Cypriot wine will be exhibiting for the event’s 36th annual outing.
The excitement is steadily building, with hashtag #CyWineFest and #CyWineFest2018 trending as the event attracts all ages and backgrounds.
This year’s headlining act is sensational singer Konstantinos Argiros in his live London debut, hitting the stage in the evening. Supporting him is one of our own, British Cypriot singer Kyriacos Georgiou, recording artist and live performer in Greece and other countries.
Adding to the dynamic schedule are talented acts, Elizabeth Chapman, performing her latest offering, ‘Irthes Esi’, along with Tony Panayi and George Nicolaou.
LGR will be present on both days at our exhibition stand where you can find us, facing the stage, near the entrance.
Come and meet your favourite radio personalities, take part in our prize draws, and we’ll also have some giveaways! We are looking forward to seeing you there. Come and say hello!
Doors open at the slightly later time of midday and close at 11.00 pm on Sunday 27th and 11:30 am to 10.00 pm on Bank Holiday Monday 28th May 2018.
The address is at Lee Valley Leisure Complex, 61 Meridian Way, N9 0AR; you can purchase your tickets for the evening concert seating area, by visiting cypriotwinefestival.com
See you there!
Konstantinos Argiros, Kyriacos Georgiou
Tony Panayi, Elizabeth Chapman, George Nicolaou
Article written by
LGR presents popular singing sensation, Plastikes Karekles on Tuesday, 22nd May, at The Village Greek Restaurant in New Barnet from 7 pm.
Plastikes Karekles live performance
Plastikes Karekles consist of Marina Deligianni (vocals), Spiros Bolovinos (vocals, bouzouki), Pavlos Carvalho (bouzouki), Maria Tsirodimitri (guitar), Lydian Dhami (double bass)
Join us to enjoy some amazing Greek music & for a night to remember!
Tickets only £12.
Plastikes Karekles at The Village Greek Restaurant, 24 Lytton Road, New Barnet, EN5 5BY.
For more information & for tickets, call LGR on 0208 349 6950.
This event has been kindly sponsored by Andrews Shipping & Forwarding, Evalena Beach Hotel Protaras, Hellenic Gourmet (Myddleton Road), World of Satellite, Drainman 24/7, This is IT Dental (Harley Street), & 90 On The Green (Aldermans Hill)
Article written by
Welcome to our guide to New Year’s Eve events in London. Are you thinking of a night out this New Year’s Eve, well the team at London Greek Radio rounds-up a few ideas…
*************************************************************************************
Efestio Bouzoukia 236 Green Lanes, N13 5UD with live music and excellent meze, will be keeping you on your feet till late at £65 per head.
For further information and to book your ticket 07788 200088
*************************************************************************************
Kokis Gregoriou and Nikos Savvides with their band in a live performance Dinner and Dance, at the Cypriot Community Centre, Earlham Grove, N22 5HJ.
Starts at 7.30 till early hours in the main hall area
Serving great hot food, fruit and much more, at £35 per ticket
For information and to book your tickets Christalla Evdokimou 020 8881 2329 (the new Manager of the Cypriot Community Centre)
*************************************************************************************
Inside Out Eventz and DJ Sooty present New Years Eve 2017 at The Decorium, 22 Western Road, Wood Green, London N22 6UH #SOLD-OUT
On the night you will enjoy a 4-course meal catered by inside out eventz, midnight Vasilopita and other fun and festive treats to see in the New Year!
DJ Sooty will be bringing you a mix of the very best in Greek, English & Latin music till 2 am.
*************************************************************************************
The Royal National Hotel, Bedford Way, London WC1H ODG, with DJ Andreas Michealides will be mixing up the newest Greek, English, Arabic, club classics, international HITS, Zembekika, Tsiftetelia, and Floorfillas to keep you dancing all night long into 2018! #SOLD-OUT
Article written by
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!
Article written by
EUROVISION QUEEN Eleni Foureira is coming to LONDON for a one night only, exclusive performance.
London Greek Radio sponsors Eleni Foureira live performance at KOKO in Camden
On Friday 29th June Marquee Events International proudly present ELENI FOUREIRA live at Club Koko in Camden with full band and dancers.
On the night there will be various supporting acts including special guest Mixalis Theodosiou with his brand new single.
Doors open at 6:30 pm with first support act live at 7:30 pm.
Standard tickets are just £40 per person. Book yours now via ticketweb.uk. Standard and VIP tickets are also available via Flames restaurant in North Finchley.
This event is over 14’s.
Everyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Koko, 1A Camden High St, London NW1 7JE, the nearest tube station is Mornington Crescent
This event is sponsored by London Greek Radio and Flames Restaurant.
Article written by lgr.co.uk
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on his visit to London this week; met with his British counterpart Theresa May, as well as the leader of the Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn.
Tsipras with his meeting with Corbyn discussed the possibilities of cooperation among the left and progressive forces of Europe.
The two leaders also discussed the Brexit issue, the latest developments in the European Union, the rise of the far right and several populist parties, the refugee issue, and the recent FYROM name developments.
Tsipras meets Jeremy Corbyn
Corbyn congratulated Tsipras on how he dealt with both the refugee and FYROM issues and in particular on Greece’s contribution to the refugee issue. The Labour Party leader compared it to other European countries which have not contributed to the issue but have, as he said, reinforced xenophobia and racism instead.
The two party leaders also discussed the Cyprus issue, with the Greek PM reiterating his set position for a fair and sustainable solution.
Tsipras also thanked Corbyn for his recent statement regarding the return of the Parthenon Marbles.
Tsipras also had a meeting with the Archbishop of Thyateira and Great Britain Gregorios, and with young Greek scientists working in London at the Greek Centre of London.
On Tuesday, the Greek premier was received by Theresa May in Downing Street and later with Jeremy Corbyn.
Tsipras delivered a speech at the London Business School on Wednesday.
Article written by Greece Embassy, London
Reports of a minor explosion and “people running” at Southgate station – an incident not believed to be terror-related.
British Transport Police said there were no reports of serious injuries and their enquiries continue at Southgate station which has been closed.
The incident comes as officers investigated a suspicious package.
Police believe the explosion was caused by a faulty drill battery.
London Ambulance Service said they treated three people at the scene for minor injuries while two others were taken to hospital.
A 23 year-old man has been arrested held on suspicion of an act likely to cause an explosion to injure or damage property, and endangering safety on the railway.
The local Cypriot MP Bambos Charalambous for Enfield Southgate had visited Southgate station on the Tuesday night; he issued a statement which confirmed that the “minor explosion” was non-terror related.
“Southgate is still cordoned off after the explosion shortly after 7 pm. @metpoliceuk have confirmed that explosion was non terror related. Sadly there have been some injuries, it seems from the panic. My thoughts are with everyone who has been hurt and a huge thanks to our emergency services.”
British Transport Police tweeted: “Southgate Tube station is currently closed whilst officers respond to a suspicious package.
“Officers are on scene alongside @metpoliceuk. Please avoid the area – we’ll provide updates as soon as we can.”
The Metropolitan Police said in a statement: “Police were called at 7.03pm on 19 June to reports of an explosion and people running at Southgate underground station.
“Met officers remain at the scene along with colleagues from British Transport Police, London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service.
“Cordons are in place and the station is closed.
“Enquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the reported explosion, which appears to have been minor.
“We are not aware of any serious injury.”
The arrested man, who is from Enfield, has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.
Photo credit: Sean Salamander/Twitter
Article written by London Greek Radio
