SEEMA celebrations

The South Eastern England Malayalee Association held its annual get-together at St Mary Magdalene church hall so members of all ages could enjoy Christmas and New Year festivites together.

The evening comprised carols, music, performances and entertainment, with a visit from Santa Claus and presents for all the children, followed by Christmas dinner Indian style with delicious rice and chicken.

Organiser Manoj Joseph said: "It's all about Christmas and its importance. Our people came from Kerala, a southern state of India, and we started the organisation to meet each other. So this is to celebrate Christmas, and give our children the chance to perform dances, give them a message about Christmas, and hear what it is about, and how our people celebrate.

"People are these days are mostly workbound or housebound so this is an occasion where we can meet each other, celebrate Christmas together and have a meal. That is the idea today. Father Chris Spain has agreed to give us a Christmas message and we have nearly two hours of our programme, which is mainly kids performing and there is a nativity play. Then there are presents for all the children - they are quite keen to have them, and to see Santa.

"It is for family and friends - we give the chance to each and everyone to see each other. We have contact over the phone but rarely have the chance to see each other, so this makes a huge difference, especially for the kids."