Wellington pupil, Charlie Pemberton has made a great impression upon the homeless charity Shelter, and is now their “face”. Charlie, Year 11, sang Franz Schubert’s Ave Maria at the charity’s Carol Service at St Martin in the Fields in London, then made an emotional and impassioned speech about the plight of homeless across the country.
The CEO of Shelter, Campbell Rob, was so moved by Charlie’s speech that it will be used on the front page of the charity’s website across the whole of England.
“Charlie has raised a considerable amount of money for Shelter and helped to raise awareness for the charity.” commented Martin Reader, Headmaster of Wellington School. “We are proud that the charity has recognised her contribution and dedication by putting her on the front page of their website. She is one of our superb choristers, so her lovely voice in the church of St Martin in the Field would have been a great inspiration”.
Charlie’s involvement with the charity began 3 years ago – the plight of the homeless is close to her heart – and since then she has addressed the House of Commons in a lobbying speech against housing cuts and worked as an ambassador for the charity.
“It was a truly uplifting experience to sing in such an auspicious venue for a worthwhile cause” said Charlie. “After the service there was a dinner in the Crypt, where I met Peter Sissons, Mike Bushell and George Clarke, as well as many of the notable Shelter representatives. It was a fabulous evening, ” concluded Charlie.