World-famous baritone Roderick Williams and pianist Christopher Glynn generously performed a charity recital of Schubert's Winter Journey hosted at FHS in aid of Gill Hammond, a much-loved member of the FHS Community.  Gill was Head of Psychology and Assistant Head of Sixth Form at FHS for many years.  In November 2017, Gill’s husband, Joe, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease – a degenerative, incurable condition that eventually leads to paralysis and death.  Joe and Gill have two young boys: Jimmy who has just turned two and Tom, who is on the autism spectrum, is six.

The recital, hosted in the School Hall at Francis Holland was organised in aid of the entire Hammond family in a bid to help them avoid financial hardship and secure some of the essential items they need. Almost 200 guests attended, from students to long-time opera fanatics.  Roderick was mesmerising; performing for 75 minutes in the round and receiving an instant standing ovation!

The concert was followed by a raffle, with a number of fabulous prizes generously donated by the local community. There was an outpouring of support from the community, with attendees pledging to support the family in various ways, including the purchase of a much-needed therapy bike.

The event was an overwhelming success, ultimately raising £11k for the Hammond family. Thank you to those of you who gave so generously.