LONDON
A São João celebration for senior citizens was organised by Wisel Production Sports Entertainment and Leisure Promotions at the St Boniface Parish Hall in Tooting, London on June 27 from 12.30 pm to 6 pm.
Plino Martins, Ilona Fernandes, Richard Fernandes, Cassey Afonso and Bella Fernandes welcomed the many guests at the venue.
The one-man band Chico provided music which brought the guests to the dance floor.
Two groups of Line Dancers led by Tina Dias and Marcia Saldanha added to the participation, while Ben Dias (former member of the Goan band ‘Radio Seranaders’) sang couple of songs by Engelbert Humperdinck. His brother, Hilary Dias, followed it with two songs by Cliff Richard.
Gaby Menezes also impersonated Elvis Presley and sang “It’s now or Never”
The famous São João anthem by C Alvares was led by Chico, Fr Oliver Antao, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Rosary Church, Blackfen, Bexley, Kent, and Cassey Afonso, with Richard, Bella, Fatima Fernandes, also popularly known as Little Lorna, and Maria Fernandes chipping in the chorus.
This was followed by Fatima Fernandes, presented two Chris Perry songs sung by Lorna, while Loretta Vaz the Tom Jones song ‘Help Yourself’.
The guest of honour was Fr Oliver Antao, who gave a brief talk about the significance of São João. He blessed the Goan food prepared by Suntop caterers and followed it with the grace before meals. The event also included raffle prizes.
Richard Fernandes later thanked the guests for not only for gracing the function but also for making the effort to come in the appropriate colourful attire.
He also thanked Chico for his music and to Bella and Cassey for ensuring that the guests enjoyed themselves.
Later, many of the guests sent in messages to Richard to say that they had enjoyed themselves and commended the team for the successful event and for serving well the Goan community at large.
