Cumbria’s High Sheriff, Marcia Reid-Fotheringham, believes we all have plenty to be thankful for and she has plans to demonstrate to Cumbrians just how to do it, while at the same time raising money for Eden Valley Hospice.
In the United States, where Marcia was raised, Thanksgiving is a national holiday held on the fourth Thursday of November each year. During her year in office, she has decided to offer the chance to experience a traditional Thanksgiving dinner and to learn about its associated history and customs.
Marcia explains: “Thanksgiving is a special time of year to reflect on everything we’re grateful for. While not usually celebrated in the UK, it’s an opportunity that I thought Cumbria should not miss.
“For me personally, and as my last fund-raiser as High Sheriff, it’s a chance to say thank you and to celebrate all the wonders and wonderful people of Cumbria! It is a ticketed event that will enable guests to reflect on their own gratitude while raising funds for Eden Valley Hospice.
“On a recent visit there, I discovered what an amazing organisation this is and while we all hope we will never need their help, the care and support they offer to those who do is simply remarkable and deserves our backing.
She concludes: “Everyone of us has things to be grateful for, so come and celebrate your gratitude in a fun way – as we turn a US tradition into a very British experience!”
The Thanksgiving dinner will be held in the Tithe Barn, Carlisle, on Saturday 30th November from 7.30-11.00pm. Tickets are £35 per head (available from Eventbrite.com or by emailing [email protected] ) for a three-course dinner prepared by The Lost Chef, Andrew Pollock, and guests are invited to bring their own choice of tipple for the evening.