THE Mustard Seed Communities and the Pringle Home for Children will share more than $310,000 (£1,700 pounds) collected during this year’s Independence Service of Praise and Thanksgiving in London.

The service, held at the Emmanuel Centre in Westminster on July 25, was attended by nearly 1000 Jamaicans and friends of Jamaica from across the United Kingdom (UK).

Professor Extraordinarius, University of South Africa and Coordinator for Community Learning, Bristol Baptist College, Anthony Reddie, delivered the sermon.

The service, hosted by the Jamaican High Commission, featured musical performances from the Croydon Youth Choir, and Harlem Ngyuem, who is a student of the St Martin in the Fields Girls School.

Children of staff and friends of the High Commission recited the National Pledge. They were adorned in bandana and denim reflecting this year’s Independence fashion theme.

The High Commission also hosted an Independence Day reception at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London on August 5, where two members of the UK Diaspora were honoured.

During the event, High Commissioner, Aloun Ndombet-Assamba, presented the Governor-General’s Jamaica Diaspora Award for Excellence to founder of the Friends of the Noel Holmes Hospital and the West Haven Children’s Home charity, Gloria Leslie.

Leslie also supports several infirmaries, churches and the Blossom Gardens Children’s Home in St James, providing equipment, toys and medical supplies.

Community stalwart and former Community relations officer, Delores Cooper, OD was recognised for two decades of service to Jamaica.

The citation described her as a deeply committed, loyal and patriotic Jamaican, “who has a great love for her country and devotion to the welfare of her compatriots. She has a history of service to the people and government of Jamaica that spans several decades and has touched the lives of countless individuals. Her dedication and determination have been a source of inspiration and motivation to many. Young and old speak lovingly and glowing about the difference she has made to their quality of life”.

The Independence reception featured special performances by the Praise Academy of Dance, singer JC Lodge, and the Freedom Band UK.

— JIS