Pantomime stars spread cheer at Gussie’s Kitchen

Families who use Gussie’s Kitchen in Chesterfield met a real life Cinderella and Prince Charming this week as stars from the forthcoming Cinderella pantomime at the Pomegranate Theatre visited the project.

Children’s TV favourite Naomi Wilkinson, who stars as Cinderella in the production, visited along with X Factor singer Rhydian Roberts who plays Prince Charming.

Both were impressed with the social eating project at Saints Augustine Church on Derby Road, which provides hot, healthy meals to local people weekly and gives the chance for people who may be isolated to meet and chat together.

They spent time speaking to people who use the project and the volunteers who prepare the food each week.

Naomi Wilkinson said: “It’s been really great to visit Gussie’s Kitchen and meet the lovely people who work here and volunteer here offering this delicious food to some people who really need it.”

“There’s a lovely atmosphere in this social space for people who need some companionship and a little bit of extra help.”

Rhydian Roberts added: “There are a lot of children here who are looking forward to the panto. One girl kept jumping up and down, she couldn’t believe Cinderella was in front of her.”

The project has received funding from Chesterfield Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council and is supported by local Tesco branches and Saints Augustine Church.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s deputy leader, said: “All the children were excited to meet Cinderella and Prince Charming.”

“They have been so good, having their photos taken with the children and serving the food. We’re really grateful to the pantomime stars.”

Cinderella runs at the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield, from Saturday 1 December to Sunday 6 January. Click here for more information.