Key Points
- A charity musical event titled ‘Sing for Saint Francis Hospice’ raised over £1,400 at the Mercury Mall in Romford.
- The fundraiser was organised to honour the memory of local performer and dedicated hospice supporter Paula Allibon.
- Proceeds from the event go directly towards aiding Saint Francis Hospice in delivering specialist end-of-life care across Havering and surrounding boroughs.
- Local performers, volunteers, and shoppers gathered at the shopping centre to participate in live music performances and contribute donations.
Romford (East London Times) October 19, 2026 – A community musical gathering hosted at the Mercury Mall shopping centre in Romford has successfully raised more than £1,400 in support of Saint Francis Hospice while honouring the life and legacy of beloved local performer Paula Allibon. The ‘Sing for Saint Francis Hospice’ event brought together local musicians, shoppers, and community supporters for a day dedicated to live music and charitable giving, celebrating a figure who was well known across local venues and pub performance circuits.
How Was the Charity Event Organised at Mercury Mall?
The fundraising initiative took place within the main concourse of Mercury Mall, attracting visitors throughout the day as local vocalists and instrumentalists performed live sets. Organisers set up dedicated collection points and interactive musical sessions designed to encourage public engagement and donations from pass-by shoppers.
The event was staged specifically to celebrate Paula Allibon, a regular pub performer who dedicated significant effort to supporting local healthcare causes prior to her passing. Funds raised during the gathering exceeded the initial target of £1,400, with all proceeds allocated directly to operational services at Saint Francis Hospice.
What Background Led to the ‘Sing for Saint Francis Hospice’ Initiative?
Saint Francis Hospice provides palliative and end-of-life care to patients across Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge, and Brentwood. As an independent charity, the organization relies heavily on voluntary donations, community fundraising events, and local support to maintain its clinical and emotional support services for patients and their families.
Paula Allibon was a well-known figure within the local community, frequently performing at local pubs and community venues. Over many years, Allibon maintained a close relationship with Saint Francis Hospice, using her musical talent to raise funds and awareness for the charity’s work. Following her death, fellow performers and local organisers established the ‘Sing for Saint Francis Hospice’ initiative as a recurring or tribute event to continue her legacy of charitable work through live music.
What Impact Will This Development Have on the Local Community and Hospice Supporters?
This development directly affects the local community in Romford, supporters of Saint Francis Hospice, and families who rely on local palliative care services. For the hospice and its care recipients, the £1,400 raised will contribute directly towards essential clinical resources, respite care, and bereavement support services.
For the local creative and performance community, the success of the event demonstrates the ongoing viability of public community fundraisers hosted in local retail hubs such as Mercury Mall. It reinforces a collaborative framework where local businesses, artists, and charitable organisations can join forces to sustain critical social care services across the London Borough of Havering.
