Celebrity Friends open festive season at Mayhew

Award-Winning Stars Bring Festive Magic to Mayhew’s Christmas Concert

Comedian and broadcaster Sue Perkins, acclaimed actor Sir Derek Jacobi, and TV presenter Fearne Cotton joined forces to celebrate the festive season at animal welfare charity Mayhew’s annual Christmas Concert on Wednesday 3 December.

Hosted by Sue Perkins at the stunning St Matthew’s Church in Ealing, more than 400 guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening of heartwarming readings, joyful music, and festive cheer – all in support of dogs and cats in need.

Sir Derek Jacobi captivated the audience with a moving reading from Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, while Mayhew ambassadors Fearne Cotton and Beattie Edney shared personal reflections on the charity’s life-saving work. The evening also featured a special message from broadcaster Louis Theroux, celebrating the season and highlighting Mayhew’s vital role in supporting vulnerable animals and their owners.

Musical highlights included a breathtaking performance from Classic Brit Award-nominated soprano Katie Marshall, energetic festive favourites from Some Voices – the sensational pop choir as seen on The Royal Variety Performance and ITV – and beautiful jazz melodies from Kate and Ian Hannent, proud rescue cat owners.

Adding to the magic of the evening were Mayhew’s very own TheraPaws dogs – specially trained therapy dogs who bring comfort and joy through Animal Assisted Interventions. These remarkable dogs regularly visit hospitals, care homes, schools, and hospices across London, and were on hand to spread festive smiles among concert goers.

What our Hosts say

Sue Perkins said:

“Mayhew is a wonderful charity, and I am very much looking forward to hosting this fantastic fundraising event to raise as much as possible for dogs and cats in need this festive season.”

Fearne Cotton added: 

“I absolutely love being involved with Mayhew. As a charity they do so much to support dogs, cats and the wider community in London.  Their Christmas Concert is the best way to kick off the festive season with some feel-good Christmas cheer, not to mention some very cute therapy dogs!”

Mayhew Chief Executive, Elvira Meucci-Lyons, said:

“The annual Mayhew Christmas Concert is a highlight of our calendar, offering a chance to celebrate the season while supporting our work to keep dogs and cats healthy and happy throughout the year. We are incredibly grateful to Sue, Sir Derek, Fearne, and all our wonderful performers and guests for helping make this year’s concert truly special.”

All proceeds raised from the event will fund Mayhew’s vital work, supporting thousands of abandoned and vulnerable dogs, cats, and pet owners in need across London and beyond.