Dreary weather could not stop the women of Redbridge Women’s International Zionist Organisation (WIZO) from enjoying themselves as they hosted a strawberry tea event with a special guest.

Ilford Recorder: Redbridge Witzo,a women's group which raises money for women's causes, hosted a strawberry tea event at Old Parkonians Association in Ilford. Irene Hyams, Helena Shaw, Josie Marks and Betty SaundersRedbridge Witzo,a women's group which raises money for women's causes, hosted a strawberry tea event at Old Parkonians Association in Ilford. Irene Hyams, Helena Shaw, Josie Marks and Betty Saunders (Image: Archant)

The Savoy’s head butler Sean Davoren made an appearance at the event to raise money for underprivileged women and children in Israel.

Originally meant to be held in the garden of Muriel Silver, the group relocated to the Old Parkonians Association, Forest Road, Barkingside, because of the rain.

About 78 women settled down for a talk from the butler who talked about his job. This was followed by an intense question and answer session where the women discovered that whilst Mr Davoren can not accept money from clients he is allowed to receive gifts.

Redbridge WIZO secretary Elsa Linder had nothing but high praise for the head butler.

She said: “He was excellent, really nice and he even assisted when we were serving tea.”

The women managed to raise £982 and are looking forward to hosting their next event in October – a ladies quiz.

Elsa said: “It’s a ladies charity but the events are open to anyone, if a man wanted to come we wouldn’t say no.”

To get involved with the next Redbridge WIZO event call 02085511301.