Panto joy for Norwich youngsters

A little bit of joy was brought to a group of youngsters who have lost a loved one as they were treated to a trip out to the theatre.

Twenty-two children from Nelson's Journey, which supports bereaved children, yesterday went to see Robin Hood at Norwich Theatre Royal.

They were taken to the pantomime by Norwich-based solicitors Roger and Norton, which decided not to send out Christmas cards but instead use the money to benefit a local charity.

As part of the visit, the youngsters also enjoyed a behind the scenes tour and had their own tea party.

Graham Knights, practice manager at Rogers & Norton, which is based in Willow Lane in the city centre, said: 'We were delighted to support the excellent work Nelson's Journey does for young people.

'With the help of the Theatre Royal we were able to make it a really special event.'

It is the first time the solicitors firm has held such an initiative. Nelson's Journey, which is based in Sprowston Road, Norwich, was chosen for its work it does to support young people who have experienced the death of a parent or other significant person in their life.

Sophie Berry, from Nelson's Journey, said: 'Many of the families Nelson's Journey supports are living on low incomes and therefore a trip to the pantomime is a really special event for the children.

'Rogers and Norton have really helped to make this a memorable experience for the children and we were very pleased that they chose to support Nelson's Journey.'

People have just a few more days to see Robin Hood, starring Richard Gauntlett and Tony Slattery, at Norwich Theatre Royal. The pantomime's five week stint will come to an end this Sunday.

For booking information, go to www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk or call the box office on 01603 630000.

Is the company where you work doing something special for charity? Call reporter Kate Scotter 01603 772326 or kate.scotter@archant.co.uk