Docklands Archives - Page 2 of 49

October 16, 2025October 16, 2025

Omnifix and Omniss set to open second site in Canary Wharf

Brand’s coming to 8 Harbord Square in Wood Wharf will care for, repair and create fashion in the neighbourhood

Omniss and Omnifix are set to open their second site at Wood Wharf - image by Omniss — Omniss and Omnifix are set to open their second site at Wood Wharf – image by Omniss

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While Canary Wharf’s malls are replete with stores selling all kinds of fashion, only English Tailoring makes and sells garments in the neighbourhood.

Soon though the veteran tailoring business, which has spent the last 28 years clothing Wharfers from its base on South Colonnade, will be joined by a new arrival to the area.

As part of Canary Wharf Group and Tower Hamlets Council’s collaborative project to provide affordable space for local businesses, 8 Harbord Square in Wood Wharf is set to welcome Asya Ter-Hovakimyan’s two brands – Omnifix and Omniss.

The former offers repairs, alterations, tailoring and customisation, while the latter is the creative label she co-founded in 2016 with Francisco Zhou while the pair were studying at the London College Of Fashion.

Omniss became established at Poplar Works in east London in 2020 as a base of operations, while the genesis of Omnifix came shortly after the pandemic arrived when Asya spotted a gap in the market.

Omnifix founder and Omniss co-founder, Asya Ter-Hovakimyan – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

a high-end solution

She said: “In the UK, alterations and repairs to clothes are generally handled through dry cleaning businesses.

“In London you also have high-level seamstresses and tailors who do work making garments for fashion labels, but don’t tend to get involved with that sector.

“When lockdown happened, we had customers getting in touch with us for help with designer garments – repairs and alterations.

“I realised that, through my work with Omniss, I was in between these two groups and had all the resources to handle complex services like sympathetically re-sizing pieces as well as simpler tasks.

“Initially, this side of the business didn’t have its own name, but it grew so busy through word-of-mouth that I had to work out what to do with it.

“I founded Omnifix with the aim of treating fashion in a different way.

“I wanted customers to be able to bring pieces they loved to us to work on to bring new life to them.

“In December 2022 we’d moved to a bigger space in Hackney Wick at The Trampery and, by March, we were fully booked.

“We had to hire staff specifically to work on repairs and processing new orders and, by this time, we were getting business from all round the UK.

“I’d always seen us needing more space and I’m quite local to Canary Wharf.

“I know the type of people who are here and I think we have something to offer them.

“While we have an online presence, I believe it’s important that clothes exist in the physical world – people want to try things on and it’s important to be able to see them face-to-face.

“Customers can bring us garments where they know something is wrong and we’ll fix it – we’ll listen to them.

“It’s a bit like going to the doctor with your symptoms. We’re here to be empathetic.

“It’s about trust and there’s a sense of community around that as well.

“I always envisioned that we would have multiple hubs to drop off clothes and get advice, but they’ll also be a retail element at Wood Wharf, selling quality fashion in that neighbourhood.

“Some clothes for Omniss will also be made there – that’s important too, because people can be disconnected from how their clothes are manufactured.

“If what someone is wearing takes special machinery and many hours of making to create but they’re only paying £10, then there’s a problem with that model.”

Asya hard at work on a collection for Omniss at the brand’s Hackney Wick Studio. Together with Omnifix, the label will be expanding to Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf – image by Mike Chaney

creating Omniss

Asya has been immersed in fashion from a young age, first learning embroidery in her native Armenia at her mother’s instigation before starting to make clothes aged 10.

She said: “She saw I really loved doing it, but she didn’t really do it herself – she had a conviction that everybody should know how to sew on a button.

“As a girl I learnt about the best fashion schools in the world from her magazines and they were all in the UK. I made it my dream to study in one of those places.

“It was quite a journey to put together a portfolio and apply, because I didn’t know about the system here.

“I did lots of drawings back home and then I got an offer from Central Saint Martins to study a foundation year in art and design.”

From that base, she won a place on the Fashion Design Technology: Womenswear course at the London College Of Fashion, where she met Francisco and started Omniss.

Wave Sheer Blouse, £175 and Wave Suit Trouser, £450, both by Omniss - image by Omniss — Wave Sheer Blouse, £175 and Wave Suit Trouser, £450, both by Omniss – image by Omniss

a foundation in technique

“It was a very technical degree,” said Asya.

“At first I was a bit upset because I was a lot more into the product and I wanted to do more artistic stuff.

“But I came to the conclusion that, if you don’t have the practical skills to bring your ideas to life, it might be easy for someone else to tell you they are impractical.

“If you know how to do it, it’s easier for you to get pieces made the way that you imagined.

“After I met Francisco, we started doing catwalk shows in west London venues such as Mayfair members clubs.

“We were just two students who barely knew anything – finding people to model for us in the tall jeans section of Topshop on Oxford Street.

“Some were tourists who were excited to be involved with fashion students – some even ended up buying our clothes.

“That’s when we realised that, if people liked what we were doing, we should make it into a proper brand and Omniss was born.

“We create collections, taking inspiration from what’s being discussed and what’s going on in the world around us.

“In 2019 it was about how AI would take over the job market – we imagined Omniss as a robot factory.

“Then there was a collection about the sea, when climate change was being neglected.

“One thing I’m very passionate about is making something sustainable, while ticking all the other boxes that fashion is supposed to be.

“Fashion should be empowering and make you feel good. You also need to like it aesthetically.

“Fashion needs to be organic and ethically made by people who are paid fairly. These are the basics.

“The trick is still to make it desirable – that sustainability isn’t the main reason why someone buys something.

“We always try to produce things that are really wearable.

“Running businesses is definitely a lot more hard work than I imagined, but we really care about every product and customer.

“When we get a five-star review we do a little happy dance.”

Omnifix and Omniss will join an ever-growing collection of new arrivals to Wood Wharf including The Flower Club, Wayne Hairdresser Salon, Cafe Seek, Ong Lai Kopitaim, The Island, Awe London, Signorelli and Pawsome Pet Grooming And Spa.

Several more businesses are set to open soon including Supershakes, The Lockdown Room, Nora and Mama Li.

Omniss' Broken Heart Jackets, £475 - image by Ominiss — Omniss’ Broken Heart Jackets, £475 – image by Ominiss

key details: Omnifix and Omniss

Omnifix and Omniss are set to open on the ground floor of Wood Wharf’s 8 Harbord Square in the coming weeks.

Details of the former’s services can be found here

Details of the latter’s collections can be found here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

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October 15, 2025October 16, 2025

Dagenham Green developers working to deliver on-site amenities

The 3,500+ home joint venture between The Hill Group and housing association Peabody is taking shape with practical and cultural additions

A show home at Dagenham Green in east London - image supplied by The Hill Group — A show home at Dagenham Green in east London – image supplied by The Hill Group

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Amenities are a key consideration for buyers when considering where to purchase a property.

The facilities and services available locally can play a huge factor in such decisions, with canny home-hunters both researching what’s currently on offer and what’s coming to the area.

Take Dagenham Green in east London, for example.

A joint venture by The Hill Group and housing association Peabody, when completed the scheme will see more than 3,500 homes built on the site of Ford’s former stamping plant.

Spread over some 45 acres, the development plans include extensive public open space with parks, a new secondary school and community facilities. It’s also a deeply practical option for buyers.

Dagenham Green is adjacent to Dagenham Dock station, offering a direct C2C rail link into Fenchurch Street in 21 minutes.

For those heading to east London destinations, the line connects to the likes of Barking and West Ham, offering a plethora of possible destinations via Tube, rail and DLR services.

That includes a commute to Canary Wharf or Stratford of about 20 minutes.

An artist's impression of how the new Sainsbury's Local will look at Dagenham Green - image supplied by The Hill Group — An artist’s impression of how the new Sainsbury’s Local will look at Dagenham Green – image supplied by The Hill Group

a new opening at Dagenham Green

But what about on-site amenities? Well, the scheme recently announced it had secured Sainsbury’s as an anchor tenant.

The firm will open a 3,173sq ft convenience store on the ground floor of one of its buildings in the second quarter of 2027.

“We’re delighted to be partnering with Hill and Peabody to bring a brand-new Sainsbury’s Local to this exciting development,” said Jonathan Arthur, Sainsbury’s head of convenience property development.

“As well as creating employment opportunities, our new store will bring a carefully curated selection of high-quality, great value products to the local community and we’re looking forward to it becoming a central part of the new neighbourhood in Dagenham Green once it opens.”

Andy Hill, founder and group chief executive of The Hill Group, said: “Securing Sainsbury’s as our first tenant is an important step in our vision for Dagenham Green.

“Having a trusted national retailer on board from so early in the development will be a huge asset for this growing community and demonstrates the appeal of the development for leading brands and businesses.”

James McMylor, managing director, London North at Peabody, added: “We know a great place to live isn’t just about well-built homes – it’s also about having the things that make daily life easier and more enjoyable.

“This Sainsbury’s will mean fresh food and essentials right on the doorstep, making life simpler for new residents and helping them settle in as Dagenham Green takes shape.”

One, two and three-bedrooms apartments are currently available on offer for private sale at Dagenham Green with prices starting at £275,000.

Shared ownership homes are also available at the scheme through Peabody with prices starting at £81,000 for a 30% share of a one-bed.

The development is located next to Dagenham Dock station - image supplied by the Hill Group — The development is located next to Dagenham Dock station – image supplied by the Hill Group

delivering culture on-site

Practicalities are important, of course, but there are also other things to consider and Dagenham Green is working hard to develop a cultural offering for its future residents.

The development has commissioned artist Ruth Ewan to create a series of public artworks on the site, forming the start of a heritage trail that will celebrate the area’s history.

Dagenham’s Ford plant is known not only for its automotive legacy but also for the 1968 and 1984 sewing machinists’ strikes – both landmark events in the campaign for women to be paid equally for their work.

Ruth’s first commission, with local women invited to participate in the creative process, will respond to those events with the aim of inspiring future generations.

“It’s an honour to be part of a project that recognises the importance of Dagenham’s social history – especially the incredible women who stood up for fair pay and equal working rights,” said Ruth.

“My aim is to create new works that convey this remarkable history and speak of its continued relevance to the present.

“I’m really looking forward to getting to know local people and working with them to shape the project together.”

Ruth’s work includes installations, performances, writing and print. Her work addresses ideas of power and questions representations of time, rebellion and repression.

She has shown work at Tate Britain, the National Gallery and the New Museum in New York.

The development is hosting an event for first-time buyers in October - image supplied by The Hill Group — The development is hosting an event for first-time buyers in October – image supplied by The Hill Group

getting on the ladder

Dagenham Green is set to host a free event on Saturday, October 18, 2025, aimed at first-time buyers considering moving to the development.

Entitled the 95% Mortgage Talk, advice will be offered from Torc24 experts on buying with a 5% deposit, while solicitors from PCS Legal will also be on hand to handle conveyancing queries.

Those wishing to attend should sign up digitally.

Apartments come with fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms - image supplied by The Hill Group — Apartments come with fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms – image supplied by The Hill Group

key details: Dagenham Green

Prices at Dagenham Green start at £275,000 with the first residents at the development set to move in by the end of this year.

Those keen to attend the free 95% Mortgage Talk on October 18, 2025, between 11am and 4pm, should register their attendance online.

Find out more about the development here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

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October 6, 2025October 5, 2025

The Fragrance Shop brings fine scents to Canary Wharf

Recently opened, the new east London store offers big brands and niche products with a 20% unlimited discount for members who pay an annual fee

The Fragrance Shop area manager, Lisa Blackwall - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The Fragrance Shop area manager, Lisa Blackwall – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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Canary Wharf has welcomed something new into the portfolio of stores that make up its retail offering.

The Fragrance Shop, located in Canada Place opposite long-time mall resident Charles Tyrwhitt, is the only retailer on the estate to offer a wide selection of products specifically aimed at delighting the nose.

True, there’s the likes of Penhaligon’s in Cabot Place, but the new opening goes beyond a single brand – its shelves lined with mainstream and niche fragrances to satisfy Wharfers’ olfactory desires.

Designer names are everywhere with bottles in an astonishing display of hues and shapes.

Personally, I’m charmed by a little silver robot whose prime directive is simply to exude a fine mist of Phantom Eau De Toilette by Rabanne, but there are plenty of options.

Gucci, Armani, Diesel, Dior and Mugler sit opposite Joop! and Givenchy – all on sleek black shelves with backlit bottles to best show off the vibrant shades of glass.

The testers are out, the air is warm with scent and everywhere there are little lengths of cardboard to try the products out on before committing to skin.

The Fragrance Shop's Canary Wharf branch in Canada Place - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The Fragrance Shop’s Canary Wharf branch in Canada Place – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

big brands and niche scents at The Fragrance Shop

“What we offer to Canary Wharf is a bit different to everybody else,” said Lisa Blackwell, area manager at The Fragrance Shop.

“We have all of the big brands you would expect but we also sell a range of niche scents.

“There’s nowhere else on the estate that stocks the wide range of fragrances that we do.”

Lisa has spent her career in retail, the last three years with The Fragrance Shop, managing stores in London, Essex and East Anglia.

“Each one is different, with its own layout, although we carry similar products on the shelves,” she said.

“Customers often know exactly the fragrance they want.

“But for those who are choosing something new, we usually start with what they already like and work from there.

“It’s not always the case that customers can identify the kind of notes they enjoy – they’ll say sweet or woody, but actually prefer something different.

“That’s usually why we start with a brand they’re comfortable with as a foundation and use that as a basis to explore.

“Women will generally know what they want and will pay attention to price – if a fragrance is available for slightly less elsewhere they’ll know about it.

“For men, it’s all about ease. They come into the store, make a decision and then buy a scent.

“With customers who don’t know what they want, we are delighted to help and we’ll ask them questions to narrow down the options from the scents that they like to the way a product feels on their skin.

“We’ll talk about memories too and get as much information as we can.

“Then we’ll try three different fragrances to find out what they’re leaning more towards – it might be a fruity scent, a woody scent or a sweet scent.

“We can then go down that path with them and find a perfume that’s perfect.”

While the Canary Wharf store has not long been open, Lisa and her team have already identified some key trends.

“Our niche brands have been the most popular so far in our Canada Place store,” she said.

“This shop gets the same allocation as any other, but here we’ve found that those fragrances have been selling out and we’ve had to replenish them.

“These are brands like Maison Margiela, Atkinsons and Tocca and come at a higher price point.

“Canary Wharf shoppers aren’t scared of a price tag and we’re now in the process of making sure our stock levels are right for the market.

“We can also order anything in our range to the store if we don’t have it in stock.

“As we’re new, we really want people to come in, see us, talk to the team and get to know us.”

Members at The Fragrance Shop pay an annual fee and get an unlimited 20% discount on all scents - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Members at The Fragrance Shop pay an annual fee and get an unlimited 20% discount on all scents – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

get more for less

There’s another reason to check out The Fragrance Shop, namely its membership scheme, which gives members 20% off on all purchases online and in store for a year for £15 alongside other benefits.

“There are no limits on it,” said Lisa.

“Anything you see in front of you on the shop floor, whether its part of our main range or our niche offering, is 20% off with a membership and we list both prices on the shelves. Nothing is excluded.”

Other perks include monthly rewards, enhanced delivery options and free samples as well as member exclusives.

While choosing fragrances is deeply personal, Lisa said she had three favourites on sale in store.

“I’m very much Born In Roma by Valentino,” she said.

“It’s creamy, it has nice notes of Jasmine Sambac, cashmeran and vanilla bourbon and sits beautifully on your skin and it lasts.

“If I want to sit with something different, I tend to go for Coco Mademoiselle by Chanel, which is a feminine ambery fragrance.

“I’ve also recently started wearing La Bomba by Carolina Herrera which has notes of pitaya, peony and vanilla for a bit of a change.”

Lisa's picks - fragrances by Chanel, Carolina Herrera and Valentino — Lisa’s picks – fragrances by Chanel, Carolina Herrera and Valentino

managers picks

Area manager at The Fragrance Shop, Lisa Blackwell, shares her favourites

Chanel, Coco Mademoiselle

Eau De Parfum, 50ml

Member – £87.20, Non-member – £109

Carolina Herrera, La Bomba

Eau De Parfum, 50ml

Member – £78.40, Non-member – £98

Valentino, Born In Roma Donna

Extradose Eau De Parfum, 50ml

Member – £86.40, Non-member – £108

Find out more about the store here

key details: The Fragrance Shop

The Fragrance Shop is located in Canada Place and is open from 9am-8pm from Monday to Saturday and from noon-6pm on Sundays.

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

October 5, 2025October 5, 2025

Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre built on Wembley’s strong base

Starlight Express revival venue comes with blockbuster facilities, the kind of place where magic is made both on and off stage

The cast of Starlight Express celebrate on the Wembley stage - image by Troubadour — The cast of Starlight Express celebrate on the Wembley stage – image by Troubadour

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If the overall experience of visiting Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre is only half as good as what the booming company has created at Wembley Park, we’re in for a treat.

With the first preview performances of The Hunger Games: On Stage set to kick off at the newly minted Wood Wharf venue on October 20, 2025, an invitation to check out its north-west London progenitor was not to be missed.

Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, a former complex of TV studios transformed into a 1,000-seat venue, is currently home to the latest London revival of Starlight Express.

Andrew Lloyd Webber knows a thing or two about writing catchy tunes and his imaginary world of racing toy trains, made real by a breathtaking blizzard of performers on roller skates, is as thrilling in 2025 as it was in the 1980s.

Updated to include the arrival of hydrogen power it remains a somewhat silly story, bound together with banging melodies, extraordinary athleticism and just enough emotion to melt even the most cynical heart.

Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre is currently hosting Starlight Express - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre is currently hosting Starlight Express – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

a showcase of talent

This isn’t really a show review, but special mention goes out to the talents of Jeevan Braich as steam train Rusty, Olivia Ringrose as Greaseball and Jaydon Vijn as Hydra – all three up the front of a very long train of talent, expertly marshalled by Shayan Ghai’s bright-eyed Control.

What Troubarour has done in Wembley is, rather cleverly, create what feels like a sumptuous velvet box for this gem to sit in.

Replete with dozens of glitter balls, a visit feels special, an event before even getting into the auditorium.

Our trip begins in the venue’s Studio Five restaurant which serves three courses for £38 pre or post show.

It’s a funky space decked out in blue velvet that serves the theatre but has the feel of a standalone brasserie. The food is excellent.

At pretty much every turn, Wembley delights.

There’s glam, spectacle and plenty of toilets (not something every theatre in the capital can offer).

Whether you’re sipping Champagne in its VIP lounge or soaking up the starlight downstairs, there’s a real buzz about the place.

The VIP lounge at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre - image by Troubadour — The VIP lounge at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre – image by Troubadour

what this means for Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre

So what does all this tell us about the level of quality the Canary Wharf theatre might offer?

Well, the magic of Starlight gives Wembley a bit of an unfair head start.

The musical’s power to please a crowd is perhaps best expressed in the fact that the show has been running non-stop in Germany since 1988 and has been seen by 19million people.

The Hunger Games, in contrast, is a new play, albeit one with a solid fan base to bounce off, but much still depends on its quality.

However, if the Canary Wharf venue’s restaurants, facilities and – more importantly – its atmosphere are in any way similar to Wembley, Wood Wharf could well become the sort of place where the magic that keeps people coming back decades later is created.

The Studio Five restaurant at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre - image by Troubadour — The Studio Five restaurant at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre – image by Troubadour

key details: shows at Troubadour

The Hunger Games: On Stage is set to open at Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre on October 20, 2025. Ticket prices start at £30.

Starlight Express continues its run at Wembley until April, 2026. Tickets start at £27.50.

Find out more about Troubadour here

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

Subscribe to our free Wharf Whispers newsletter here

October 4, 2025October 3, 2025

Theatreship embarks on a fresh season of melodramatic film

Isle Of Dogs floating arts centre continues collaboration with British Film Institute for free screenings and nights featuring live performance

Theatreship's Natalie Hill - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Theatreship’s Natalie Hill – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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When I arrive at Theatreship to interview Natalie Hill, the sun is shining bright.

Swans are gliding on the glittering waters of South Dock and all is right with the world.

But then I see the venue’s doors are closed, a thick rope strung forbiddingly across the steps up to the vessel’s deck.

A cloud falls across the sun and a chill steals across the last day of summer. Have I come on the wrong day?

Has something terrible happened to my interviewee? Is she OK?

Will I hit my deadline or will it be blank pages, hair torn out in frustration, spilt cold coffee on the floor..?

But I’m being melodramatic.

The sun quickly pops out as Natalie casually scoots up on her bike, locks up her mount and guides me on board.

It’s an apt beginning, though, as we’re here to discuss Theatreship’s latest collaboration with the British Film Institute as a venue for its Too Much: Melodrama On Film season.

Natalie has a long history with the moving image.

Despite studying law, her love of film won out and she embarked on a career in the industry.

Her first job was on a UK comedy called Large.

“With my degree, I do have a factual focus and I realised that, by making documentaries, I could marry my two strengths – looking at real stories and doing something creative with them,” she said. “I’ve now worked in factual TV for about 25 years.

“I’m a producer and director and have made lots of different series like 24 Hours In A&E, Stacey Dooley Investigates and The Apprentice.

“Over the last four or five years, I’ve mainly focused on documentaries where I’m looking at the impact of something.

“The Man With 1,000 Kids is the biggest thing I’ve worked on and one of the most impactful because, although Dutch sperm donor Jonathan Meijer’s actions weren’t illegal when I started making the documentary, it was incredibly shocking to find out that he’d got away with lying on such a massive scale to people around the world.

“Professionally I have a focus on telling stories that people will find interesting but that could also help make changes.”

The bar on board Theatreship - image by Theatreship — The bar on board Theatreship – image by Theatreship

curating creativity at Theatreship

While Natalie originally approached Theatreship with the idea of making a documentary about the project to open a floating arts centre moored on the Isle Of Dogs, her involvement quickly became something else.

As a boat dweller on the Island herself, she became the vessel’s head of film programming – a creator turned curator.

“It’s lovely, because I normally produce stuff and here I’m exhibiting other people’s work – that’s an absolute joy,” she said.

“I’m loving it, whether it’s introducing the films, serving up drinks or picking up stray kernels of popcorn.”

She’s masterminded and programmed a successful and growing series of Free Mystery Cinema Screenings on Wednesday nights.

Audiences don’t know what they’ll be seeing, but clues are given out in the run-up to each event and prizes dispensed for correct guesses.

Under her direction, Theatreship has also – from day one – forged a partnership with the BFI screening films alongside live performances for its Creative Worlds of Powell And Pressburger and Art Of Action seasons.

The organisations have also collaborated on a showing of independent seafaring films.

Natalie introduces a mystery screening at the venue - image by Adrian Sidor — Natalie introduces a mystery screening at the venue – image by Adrian Sidor

a cargo of cinema

“One of the main things about Theatreship, is that when vessels came into this dock historically, they brought new things and that’s what we wanted to do from a cultural perspective,” said Natalie.

“We also wanted to showcase vintage cinema to a fresh audience and bring hidden gems from the various genres to people’s attention.

“I’m very passionate about it and feel like a proud parent for what we’ve done for our forthcoming season.

“We’re calling it Never Too Much Melodrama On Theatreship because, for me, melodrama is all about intense emotion and visuals in film.

“I think it gets a bit of a bad reputation because it’s seen as overacting, am-dram or prima donnas.

“It’s not about that at all, it’s about embracing that intensity.

“It could be as part of a psychological thriller or a war film or about love. It’s about really strong emotions playing out in front of you.

“Our completely Free Mystery Cinema Screenings from October 15 into December will form part of the season, although obviously I can’t tell you what we’ll be showing.

“I can say they’ll be new films, old films and films from all over the world – they’ll be dramatic and good.

“We’re also now doing Late Night Mystery Cinema on various dates.

“These are also free and start around 8.30pm, but will feature a slightly higher age rating and may be edgier, although they’ll still have warmth and integrity.”

The programme for the BFI season starts on October 13, complete with live performances alongside the named screenings.

“We’ll have three Sapphic Cinema nights in collaboration with Abi Asisa, starting with Benedetta (18) – the story of a 17th Century nun in Italy who develops a passionate and forbidden lesbian affair with a fellow novice – on October 13,” said Natalie.

“We’ll also be having a mini-season called All About Almodovar on Sundays, starting with Law Of Desire (18) on November 2.

“He is seen as a living legend of melodrama – Pedro Almodovar’s films are always so passionate, so intense.

“They’re rather like the juicy storylines you get in a soap opera, but on film and from a really revered director.

“Again, each screening will be paired with a live performance.

“Another highlight will be the The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg (U) on November 18, which recently celebrated its 60th anniversary.

“That’s a glorious Technicolor musical and we’ll be having live music from Naomi Banks, an incredible jazz singer who can perform in French, Spanish and English.

“That film – as a musical – might be seen as a bit cheesy and old-fashioned, but it’s really not. It’s got some really intense storylines in it.

“So many films have been influenced by it like La La Land and Barbie.

“We’ll also be showing Wong Kar-Wai’s 2046 (12A) alongside short film I Am Alive by Jun Chew on December 7.

“The former follows a cynical writer in 1960s Hong Kong who revisits his past through a series of fleeting romances, all the while weaving his memories into a sci-fi novel about a futuristic train that travels to the year 2046.”

For Natalie, the importance of film at Theatreship is in offering audiences a different way to enjoy the medium.

“Because there are so many ways to watch now, people are overwhelmed,” she said.

“Let us make the choice, so you don’t have to.

“Watching long films in a cinema setting is great – you’re not distracted by your phone, so you can just engage with what’s on screen.

“When I’m programming, it’s hard because there are just so many to choose from, but I’ll get round to all the ones I want to show eventually.

“I often look for films that have a bit of underdog to them – when there’s only a small budget and a small team but someone’s done something really special.

“Sometimes it’s about looking for films that might have won critical acclaim but been missed or approaching others from a different angle.

“For example, we screened Buster Keaton’s One Week but with an introduction looking at the part played by Sybil Seely in the film.”

Audience members watch a film on board the floating venue - image by Theatreship — Audience members watch a film on board the floating venue – image by Theatreship

key details: Too Much Melodrama On Film at Theatreship

Full information and booking details for all film shows at Theatreship during its Too Much: Melodrama On Film season, including the mystery screenings, can be found on the venue’s website.

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October 3, 2025October 3, 2025

Amazing Grace brings live music, food and drink to Canary Wharf

K&G Hospitality set to open brand’s second on the lower levels of 12 Bank Street on Eden Dock

12 Bank Street in Canary Wharf will soon be home to Amazing Grace - image by K&G Hospitality — 12 Bank Street in Canary Wharf will soon be home to Amazing Grace – image by K&G Hospitality

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When K&G Hospitality co-founders Vineet Kalra and Ricardo Guimaraes looked at the empty space on the ground floor of 12 Bank Street in Canary Wharf, they saw possibility.

Having found success with Amazing Grace – a 17th century church a few doors down from London Bridge station that they’ve transformed into a thriving live music venue, bar and restaurant – the pair were on the lookout for a place that could be the next iteration of that brand.

Inside Japanese architect Jun Aoki’s rippling silver pavilion on Eden Dock, they found it and, on October 24, 2025, will open as one of three new offerings set to bring the building to life.

Its top floors will be taken by opulent hotel brand House Of Gods, while Broadwick’s Landing Canary Wharf will offer serious square footage and flexibility for events.

But the ground floor will be something altogether different – a powerful blend of free live performances, Asian flavours and cocktails.

An artist's impression of the venue's covered terrace - image by K&G Hospitality — An artist’s impression of the venue’s covered terrace – image by K&G Hospitality

“Guests will enter Amazing Grace Canary Wharf via the middle of the three entrances to 12 Bank Street,” said Ricardo, who cut his teeth in hospitality during a spell at massive hotels in New York, eventually meeting Vineet when they both worked at co-living startup, The Collective.

“Inside we’ve taken some inspiration from the church – we’ll have arches behind the stages. The walls will be blue and cream with lots of photographs of artists who have played at Amazing Grace.

“There will also be a DJ booth and guests can watch the show at ground level or from the mezzanine. We also have a covered terrace for people to enjoy year-round.

“For the food, we have our executive chef Lucien Green, who’s been working with us for the past two years and was responsible for training the chefs at Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen project.

“The menu will be Asian-influenced, but we’ll also be offering bar food including burgers and wings. We tend to get a lot of larger groups so we’ll also have big platters to share.

“At the bar we’ll have a classic cocktail list with some more fun modern creations and we’ll stock about 20 or 30 wines from all over the world.

“We’ll have Prosecco, of course, because everybody loves it, as well as English sparking wine and Champagne. For parties and events we can also offer canapés.”

K&G co-founder Ricardo Guimaraes always wanted to own his own live music venue - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — K&G co-founder Ricardo Guimaraes always wanted to own his own live music venue – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

free live music at Amazing Grace

Central to Amazing Grace’s proposition, however, is its rolling programme of free live entertainment – a first for the Wharf in terms of regularity and diversity of programming.

“Each day will be different,” said Vineet, who worked in accountancy before making the move into hospitality, overseeing hotels in Europe.

“On Monday we’ll have acoustic acts, Tuesdays will be cabaret night, Wednesdays will be live band karaoke – so guests can go on stage and sing with the band.

“That’s become super-popular at London Bridge.

“Then on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, we’ll have more acoustic acts, party bands and DJs into the early hours.

“We have a late licence until 3am and, while we might not be open that long when we start out, we’re hoping to get there.

“We just want people to think of Amazing Grace in Canary Wharf as a fun place to be. Opening here will be a proud moment for both of us and this is a flagship location.”

The venue will also be offering The F*cking Fabulous Brunch, which promises “wild energy and unforgettable vibes” from 2pm-6pm on Saturdays.

Diners can expect two courses and 90 minutes of bottomless drinks for £65 per person with dancing, live entertainers, musicians and DJs.

An artist's impression of the main stage at Amazing Grace in Canary Wharf - image by K&G Hospitality — An artist’s impression of the main stage at Amazing Grace in Canary Wharf – image by K&G Hospitality

different things to different people

The design of the new venue, which has a total capacity of 450 people, has flexibility hard-wired into its structure.

The mezzanine level boasts a separate kitchen so it can operate as a standalone events space without conflicting with normal service.

The main space tapers away toward the back creating quieter areas for dining and catch-ups and the terrace directly overlooking the dock promises further sanctuary or the possibility of pop-up semi-outdoor performances.

There’s a sense Amazing Grace could be many different things to different people all at the same time or a single blockbuster space depending on what’s happening on its stage.

“Very early in my career, I did an internship at The Sheraton in New York – the hotel had 1,700 bedrooms, five bars and more than 100,000sq ft of event space,” said Ricardo.

“Simon and Garfunkel were doing gigs downstairs – there were always different things going on the whole time.

“I love music – I used to go to Ronnie Scott’s when I was young, and to the Blue Note in New York – I always wanted to have my own venue, something similar to those places but with its own identity and that’s Amazing Grace.”

K&G co-founder Vineet Kalra - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — K&G co-founder Vineet Kalra – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

entertainment at Amazing Grace

Vineet added: “We really started as a live music venue and then worked out what was popular.

“With Friday or Saturday nights, we programme something internally and work with third parties to run the other nights for us.

“Essentially, we’re a multifunctional space that’s very flexible.

“People might come for the food and stay for the music, or the other way around.

“We’ve become known for our projections behind the acts and we’ll definitely be bringing those to Canary Wharf.”

K&G is also working on another project within one stop of the estate.

Vineet and Ricardo have teamed up with Meantime to open a new taproom on Greenwich Peninsula in the spaces once occupied by Craft restaurant.

Following its takeover by Asahi, The Dial aims to give the brand a fresh presence in its birth borough following the closure of its original brewery.

“It’s going to be a taproom, micro brewery and a sports bar and event space,” said Vineet. “Split over three floors, it’s right outside North Greenwich station.”

key details: Amazing Grace Canary Wharf

Amazing Grace’s Canary Wharf live music bar and restaurant is set to officially open its doors on October 24, 2025, at 12 Bank Street.

Find out more about the venue here

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October 2, 2025

Diwali Greenwich Peninsula celebrations to focus on dance

Festival of lights set to bring movement, workshops, food, drink and music to south-east London

Visitors are encouraged to participate in a Group Traditional Dance to mark Diwali - image supplied by Knight Dragon — Visitors are encouraged to participate in a Group Traditional Dance to mark Diwali – image supplied by Knight Dragon

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“Diwali is a celebration of light, joy and togetherness – and this year’s programme brings that spirit to life in a new format,” said Laura Flanagan, director at Greenwich Peninsula.

“We’ve worked closely with independent traders, artists and performers to create a day that honours South Asian heritage and showcases the richness of its traditions.

“This vibrant celebration reflects our diverse community, and we welcome people from all over London to join in and spend the afternoon eating, dancing and creating.”

Greenwich Peninsula’s forthcoming Diwali celebrations are set to take place on October 18, 2025, from 2pm to 7pm.

Free and family-friendly, the day will feature a range of activities including a group dance by Garba performers and Dhol drummers.

Visitors and local residents are invited to Peninsula Square, Design District and Barton Yard to help celebrate the festival of light.

Here’s what’s happening:

Lantern Making Workshop

Sales And Lettings Suite, Peninsula Square – 2pm-3.20pm

Join this drop-in, hands-on workshop to design your own mini triangular lantern using willow sticks, tissue paper and yarn.

Led by professional lantern artists, the session offers a fun and creative experience for all ages, with all materials provided.

Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.

In 15–20 minutes, participants can craft a personalised lantern to take home or add to the festive display in Peninsula Square.

No booking required.

The celebrations will include a vibrant procession with Dhol drummers - image supplied by Knight Dragon — The celebrations will include a vibrant procession with Dhol drummers – image supplied by Knight Dragon

Dance Rehearsals

Canteen Courtyard – 2.30pm-3.30pm and 4.30pm and 5.30pm

Join expert dancers to learn the joyful steps of Garba and the playful rhythms of Dandiya Raas in open rehearsals designed for all abilities.

These are suitable for ages 10+ and under 16s must be accompanied by an adult

These sessions celebrate the rich and diverse audiences of Greenwich Peninsula, inviting everyone to take part in the evening’s group dance.

No experience is required – participants just need to bring their energy and get involved.

Dandiya Stick Decorating

Sales And Lettings Suite, Peninsula Square – 4pm-5.50pm

Get hands-on with a pair of Dandiya sticks – short, decorated bamboo poles used in traditional Gujarati folk dances.

Embellish your own set with colourful trims and festive flair, ready to join the group dance or take home as a joyful keepsake.

No booking is required for this drop-in session.

Group Traditional Dance

Starts Peninsula Square, ends Barton Yard – 6pm-7.15pm

Join a vibrant procession led by illuminated rickshaws, Dhol drummers and Garba dancers in traditional costume as it winds through the Design District.

Under a canopy of light, take part in a group dance that unfolds in three parts – Dandiya Raas, Garba and open free dancing, the heart of the celebration.

The event will also feature a South Asian street food market from noon-8pm in Peninsula Square and Bollywood beats and desi DJs from 4pm-9pm at Canteen Food Hall And Bar to keep the party moving.

DJs will perform at Design District's Canteen Food Hall - image supplied by Knight Dragon — DJs will perform at Design District’s Canteen Food Hall – image supplied by Knight Dragon

key details: Diwali at Greenwich Peninsula

Diwali celebrations on Greenwich Peninsula are set to take place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 2pm until 7pm.

All workshops and performances are free to attend.

Find out more about the celebrations here

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September 21, 2025September 19, 2025

Excel London expansion is historic moment for UK’s events offering

CEO Jeremy Rees says the 25% boost in space and new facilities are already proving popular with organisers and brands, bring prosperity to the capital and Newham and the Royal Docks

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 2.-L-R-Jeremy-Rees-Howard-Dawber-and-Humaid-Matar-Al-DhaheriWEB.webp
Excel London CEO Jeremy Rees, left, is joined by deputy Mayor Of London for business Howard Dawber, centre, and Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, chairman of Excel London and managing director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group at the new venue’s first event - image by Excel London — Excel London CEO Jeremy Rees, left, is joined by deputy Mayor Of London for business Howard Dawber, centre, and Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, chairman of Excel London and managing director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group at the new venue’s first event – image by Excel London

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People of greater seniority, plus time, results in events that do more for those attending and their organisers.

It’s this equation that underpins the expansion of Excel London in Royal Docks and the reason it’s already proving popular with brands from across the world.

Opened earlier this summer, the new facility saw early action hosting Formula E as its debut.

Built by Canary Wharf-based McLaren Construction, the extra 25,000sq m of space boosts the venue’s overall capacity by 25% to 125,000sq m.

That’s golden acreage for organisers to use, especially with the Elizabeth Line working as a major artery to deliver an ever increasing flow of people to the venue.

Excel London's expansion massively expands the venue to the east - image by Excel London — Excel London’s expansion massively expands the venue to the east – image by Excel London

a crucial transport link

“Since it started running and now everyone’s become familiar with it, visitor numbers have

risen 20%, dwell time has gone up by 20% and there are substantially more senior people from organisations coming to events here,” said Jeremy Rees, CEO of Excel London.

“The data is now backing up what we’ve been observing.

“If we’re in the business of connecting people, we’re doing that with an audience that’s a fifth bigger, is more senior and for a period of time that’s 20% longer.

“That multiplier effect is very substantial.”

With such positive figures as a foundation, it’s perhaps little wonder that an enhanced Excel is proving very popular following the introduction of the new facilities.

The extension includes an expanded international convention centre – allowing the venue to compete to host some of the largest congresses in Europe – as well as new exhibition halls, conference spaces and meeting rooms.

It is part of a wider £350million investment programme in London’s business and tourism economy by venue owner ADNEC Group.

The new facility includes outdoor terrace spaces - image by Excel London — The new facility includes outdoor terrace spaces – image by Excel London

a transformational expansion

“Our customers are saying the extension transforms the way they can use Excel,” said Jeremy.

“There are 37 rooms, you can have 7,000-8,000 delegates in the new space alone in a very cost-effective and efficient way.

“By using its external terraces, organisers can also create more of an emotional impact.

“Around 60% of our corporate market now is coming out of the USA – large tech, pharma and life sciences events.

“It’s exactly for them that we have built this facility.

“The encouraging trend is that they like it, they’re booking it and they’re going to be bringing tens of thousands of people to London for the first time.

“The market is speaking, everyone is moving forward with intent and the space is already getting booked up.

“It will be fascinating to see what happens over the coming months.

“Our owners in Abu Dhabi are wholeheartedly committed to investing in the experience economy in London.

“They’re extraordinarily proud of what’s been achieved so far.

“Opening the extension was definitely a history-making moment.”

Excel recently hosted Formula E - image by Excel London — Excel recently hosted Formula E – image by Excel London

Excel London: creating a halo effect

There’s a wider story here, however.

While greater provision of facilities at the venue is good news for Excel, its owners and their clients, the benefits extend well beyond its walls.

“The new facility is a very substantive step forward in terms of regular employment and profile for the area and I think the halo effect will continue to ripple through the estate and further afield into Newham and the surrounding boroughs,” said Jeremy.

“It’s an increasingly attractive proposition to invest in hospitality and the experience economy in and around Excel.

“When you look at Canary Wharf and London City Airport, the wealth building agenda in Newham and beyond with the GLA, there is a really coherent strategy to maximise the experience for visitors and the returns of investors and investees in London.

“There’s a real sweet spot at the moment and there are big players investing heavily in infrastructure – we’re one of those – to make sure as a city we stay ahead of the game compared to our European competitors.

“We’re already leading Europe and, globally, with this new facility, we are very much in the top percentile of venues that have everything to offer – exhibition and convention space, amazing transportation as well as fantastic hospitality offerings.

“My sense is that, until the next venue is completed in a tier one city, Excel is the place to come to.

“It’s fashionable, practical and commercially resonant for everyone that uses it.

“This new extension allows us to present a new kind of space that’s not existed in London before – it’s genuinely transformational for the city.”

Excel, of course, isn’t standing still.

Future plans include investment in its digital infrastructure, its hospitality offering and outside areas.

This will build on the success of Immerse LDN, a series of spaces of chapters on the edge of the dock that have been generating a steady stream of visitors to immersive attractions celebrating the likes of Formula 1, Egyptian history, Friends and Squid Game.

“There are regularly around 6,000 people a day visiting these and they’re here for a very different purpose than those coming to events at Excel,” said Jeremy.

“They are coming to be entertained, for fun, for enjoyment and they’re bringing their families.

“It means bars and restaurants can build really quite compelling business cases to locate here with consistent trade flowing though on a daily and weekly basis.

“It’s not just Monday-Friday, it’s also the weekends and it extends into the evenings too. In terms of driving a more vibrant estate, it brings life to these spaces on a consistent basis.

“I believe London has deserved more substantive, more modern and flexible infrastructure and it now has that.

“We all need to work very closely together to attract more inbound business, which ultimately creates a substantial effect throughout the visitor economy, advantaging so many of our businesses and organisations.”

key details: Excel London

Full venue details for those interested in hosting events at Excel London can be found on its website alongside extensive listings detailing what’s on in Royal Docks.

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September 18, 2025September 18, 2025

Landing Canary Wharf to offer flexible space at 12 Bank Street

Broadwick’s latest east London events venue will be at the core of the soon-to-launch building

The finishing touches are currently underway at 12 Bank Street, set to open this autumn - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — The finishing touches are currently underway at 12 Bank Street, set to open this autumn – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

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At the heart of Canary Wharf sits a building like no other.

The rippling sheen of 12 Bank Street’s cladding sets it apart – a finish created by Japanese architect Jun Aoki as a response to the waters of Eden Dock on which it sits.

It’s a structure cloaked in intrigue, its terraces and windows partially concealed by its own design.

Soon, however, 12 Bank Street will come to life.

The building’s lower level will house bar restaurant and live music venue, Amazing Grace, as it expands east – riding the success of its converted church in London Bridge.

The building’s upper levels will be taken by maximalist hotel chain House Of Gods as it branches out from Scotland.

But perhaps the most intriguing component will be the filling in the sandwich – newly minted events venue, Landing Canary Wharf.

The space has been taken by Wood Wharf-based Broadwick, which also operates The Pelligon and Broadwick Studio on the estate.

While both of these offer almost completely blank canvases to organisers, Landing Canary Wharf will serve a different need.

Broadwick CEO, Simon Tracey - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Broadwick CEO, Simon Tracey – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

inspired by success in the City

“We’ve named it to reflect the success of our Landing Forty Two venue at The Leadenhall Building in the City,” said Simon Tracey, CEO of Broadwick.

“We opened it 10 years ago and it really answered a need for high-end corporate functions, product launches and brand events.

“We think that’s what Landing Canary Wharf will do as well.

“There are a multitude of big organisations based here, many with their own event spaces, so it was important that we designed something to not only match what they have, but eclipse anything they can do in their own buildings.

“The Wharf’s amazing transport infrastructure also means the venue will service a much wider area and we’re expecting to attract corporates and brands from across London and beyond.”

When it launches in November, 2025, the venue will be able to handle events with up to 450 guests in surroundings that will be both adaptable and flush with facilities.

Landing Canary Wharf is currently under construction - image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life — Landing Canary Wharf is currently under construction – image by Jon Massey / Wharf Life

going inside Landing Canary Wharf

“Jun Aoki’s design is really interesting from the outside, but the inside will be even better,” said Simon.

“We know the location well and our interest was in designing spaces that would be very flexible, but with the sort of furnishings you might expect in a hotel.

“The scale of Landing is great and it’s a bit more defined than our other Canary Wharf spaces.

“This will be attractive to clients who want to book off-sites and conferences.

“There are meeting room spaces and pods for privacy as well as the main space and a massive wraparound terrace.

“It’s also going to be very hospitality-led.

How Landing Canary Wharf will look when work is completed - image by Broadwick — How Landing Canary Wharf will look when work is completed – image by Broadwick

“Unusually, for an event space, we’ve decided to create a fully-equipped kitchen so we’ll be able to deliver restaurant or hotel-level catering.

“At lots of venues across London, food is produced off-site and just finished off before serving because space is at a premium.

“But we had the room for full facilities here and we thought this would be an important addition.

“One of the other things that really attracted us as an operator was the other tenants in the building.

“Amazing Grace will bring life to 12 Bank Street, while House Of Gods is a very decadent brand and the Wharf needs more hotel accommodation.

“Having that is going to give us the opportunity to package up events with a place to stay, which is really attractive to lots of event organisers – especially people coming from overseas.

“The building has been designed so that you can arrive, check into your hotel room with easy access straight into the event space and then, after the event, go upstairs again or even to the roof terrace for a drink.

“We’re really excited about the building as a whole.”

An artist's impression of the venue's reception area - image by Broadwick — An artist’s impression of the venue’s reception area – image by Broadwick

Broadwick: a growing business

When it opens the venue will be Broadwick’s 24th in a portfolio that includes the likes of Magazine London, recent acquisition Troxy in Limehouse and 2025 opening Corner Corner in Canada Water.

The latter boasts a vertical farm alongside a live music venue and street food offering.

With three spaces in Canary Wharf, Simon said he also saw scope for the estate to act as a campus for some events.

He said: “We’ve hosted the Future Resilience Forum, for example, at The Pelligon and it’s an event that’s growing, so being able to use the space at Landing Canary Wharf enables us to accommodate that expansion.

“It means larger events can come to the area and make use of its transport links and hotels – it’s secure, it’s clean and there are now so many restaurants, bars and other facilities to attract people.

“I’ve been working in Canary Wharf for more than 20 years and it’s unrecognisable.

“The footfall is now spread throughout the day and weekends are sometimes busier than weekdays. It really is thriving.”

The venue has a capacity of up to 450 guests and includes a huge wraparound terrace - image by Broadwick — The venue has a capacity of up to 450 guests and includes a huge wraparound terrace – image by Broadwick

key details: Landing Canary Wharf

Landing Canary Wharf is set to officially open its doors in November, meaning its facilities will be in place for the busy festive season.

The venue can handle up to 450 guests.

Find out more about the venue here

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September 18, 2025September 18, 2025

BGC Group Charity Day raises record sum for good causes

Celebrity ambassadors answer the call at firm’s Canary Wharf office to help generate funds and honour the memory of 9/11 victims

Hugh Grant takes a call at BGC Group's Charity Day as an ambassador for the Press Justice Project - Image
by Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC Group — Hugh Grant takes a call at BGC Group’s Charity Day as an ambassador for the Press Justice Project – Image
by Dave Benett/Getty Images for BGC Group

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“You start the day by thinking back to those terrible events, 24 years ago,” said Sean Windeatt, BGC Group’s co-CEO and COO as I ask him how the company’s annual Charity Day feels.

Occupying four floors of the World Trade Centre’s North Tower, BGC’s parent company Cantor Fitzgerald lost 719 employees in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

From the firm’s London office, brokers listened as their New York colleagues used the squawk box to pass messages through to their families in what became their final moments.

In the aftermath, BGC created Charity Day as a memorial to honour colleagues, friends and loved ones.

Held on September 11 each year, the brokerage donates all revenues and broker commissions to charity, with celebrity patrons manning the phones and collecting contributions on behalf of the organisations they represent.

Since its inception in 2005, the initiative has raised more than $234million for good causes including a record-breaking $14million this year.

“Those thoughts of 2001 quickly pass because you start looking around at all the charities who are in attendance and you realise how wonderful Charity Day is,” said Sean.

“So much good comes out of it.”

Marking 20 years since its creation, this year’s event saw the likes of Princess Beatrice, boxer Anthony Joshua, former Chelsea captain John Terry, and Britain’s Got Talent star Amanda Holden.

Also attending were footballer Mark Bright, presenter Holly Willoughby and actors Ray Winstone, Lily James, Hugh Grant and Will Poulter, among many others.

Charities represented included Action Medical Research, Battersea Dogs And Cats Home, Beefy’s Charity Foundation, The Brain And Spine Foundation, Clean Herts Community, Cure EB, Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, HVH Arts and Haven House Children’s Charity.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is JP84091WEB.webp
Princess Beatrice lends her voice to the initiative on behalf of the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, which supports people affected by acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies - image by James Perrin — Princess Beatrice lends her voice to the initiative on behalf of the Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund, which supports people affected by acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies – image by James Perrin

part of BGC’s DNA

“It has become a highlight of the year for me and all the traders,” said Sean.

“9/11 is a memory – something I’ll never forget because I was actually on the phone with one of my colleagues in New York when the plane hit.

“But then you think about how much benefit we’ve given to the charities over the years.

“It’s a great thing for the City Of London because everyone comes together – even our competitors who deal with BGC, as they recognise it’s for such a good cause.

“It’s wonderful to have the celebrity ambassadors, because they help us to generate more money – people really want to talk to them.

“But it’s also about inviting the charities themselves and seeing what’s being done with some of the money. It’s such a fulfilling day.

“We aim to support around 40 larger organisations and at least 30 smaller charities with some local to Canary Wharf and east London.

“There are still around 100 people working for BGC who were here in 2001.

“There are around 1,500 people who have joined subsequently who weren’t working for the company on 9/11, yet every single one of them wants to be involved in this.

“They know they’re working a day for nothing and all they want to do is to make money for the causes we support.

“They’ve bought into this – Charity Day is part of our DNA, our culture.”

England and Lions rugby captain Maro Itoje attends on behalf of The Pearl Fund - image by James Perrin — England and Lions rugby captain Maro Itoje attends on behalf of The Pearl Fund – image by James Perrin

record-breaking fundraising

With markets busier again, despite the Tube strike, the latest Charity Day broke records with $14million raised for good causes this year.

Sean said: “We started off by making sure we looked after the families of those who lost their lives while working at the company on 9/11.

“Then, once we’d achieved that, we started to look at how we could carry things on and support other charities.

“The start of Charity Day coincided with our move to Canary Wharf in 2005 where we remain to this day.

“We were in Barclay’s building until 2019 and then moved literally next door where we have our name on the building.

“I think this place is fantastic and we’re very happy here – I’m very much a supporter of the Wharf.”

Find out more about BGC Group’s Charity Day here

Actor Will Poulter works the phones on behalf of Magic Breakfast - image by James Perrin — Actor Will Poulter works the phones on behalf of Magic Breakfast – image by James Perrin

case study: Magic Breakfast

While the celebrities graft on the phones to generate as much cash and awareness as possible at BGC Group’s annual Charity Day, its impact extends beyond the steel and glass towers of Canary Wharf and out into the community.

One of the beneficiaries of this year’s event is Magic Breakfast, with actor Will Poulter attending as its ambassador.

The charity’s mission is simple – to ensure no child or young person in the UK starts the day too hungry to learn.

It both provides breakfasts directly to schools in a variety of different ways and campaigns for change to address child morning hunger.

Emma Feltham spent a decade as a teacher and tutor before becoming an engagement partner at Magic Breakfast.

She works in east London to deliver the charity’s services and optimise its provision in schools.

expanding support

“We’re so grateful to Will and for BGC for including us because these funds mean we can recruit more schools and reach more pupils,” she said.

“We always want to expand to place support where it’s needed.

“We know there are so many benefits to tackling morning hunger in children and young people.

“It sets them up for the day – for example, you’ll see fewer kids leaving the classroom because of tummy aches and headaches.

“We also see a knock-on effect where behaviour and concentration have improved and that has a positive impact on the rest of the class too as there’s less disruption to learning.

“We work across the UK and currently support more than 1,000 schools, providing over 300,000 breakfasts.

“We work in primary and secondary schools and pupil referral units – it’s a real pleasure to work in lots of different settings, because we know this is not just something which is needed in the younger years.”

Will takes direction from a BGC trader - image by James Perrin — Will takes direction from a BGC trader – image by James Perrin

bespoke solutions

Due to the diversity of schools the charity works with, its services are anything but a one-size-fits-all solution and are instead tailored to fit the needs of the youngsters in the setting.

Emma said: “Different schools have different offers.

“We support lots of schools, from small ones with 30 pupils to those with 1,500. Logistically, it does look different in every provision.

“They might have a breakfast club, canteen provision or a grab-and-go option where the young people can take something to eat as they come in.

“We work with the schools to handle the logistics and put something in that works for them – in some of the older Victorian buildings, over three or four floors, that can be challenging.

“We’ve learnt over 20 years of providing these services that there are families who don’t qualify for support but who need a little bit of help with childcare.

“The other aspect of what we do is social – it may be that the children have a safe place to come and enjoy food in the morning as a nice start to their day.

“School can be quite full on, from the start to half-past three, it’s pretty much go-go-go.

“We provide an environment where they can come and hang out with their peers and also socialise with pupils in different year groups.

“For us it’s about making breakfast accessible to everybody in a stigma-free way, especially for working parents who may be doing multiple jobs to support their family.”

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