Brighton’s Upside Down House Lights Up for Christmas!

Brighton’s topsy turvy seafront attraction the Upside Down House, held an official Christmas light switch on event on Monday 6th December. The Starr Trust Choir sang Christmas carols outside the house while the sun set and a crowd formed. The lights were officially switched on by local celebrity Jason Burrill of Big Brother fame, joined by Widow Twankie from Brighton’s Family Panto ‘Aladdin’.

Despite the heavy rain throughout the day, the sun came out just in time for those arriving for the festivities. To ensure everyone was in a festive mood, 15 children from Apollo Theatre Arts performed a collection of songs from their upcoming stage show ‘Annie’ which is running on various dates during December at Roedean School in Brighton.

Following the entertainment outside, the Upside Down House team – including Benny the dog - provided a complimentary tour of the House to all guests as well as our young Starrs and performers on the night. British Airways i360 kindly opened their event suite opposite and served up hot drinks and mince pies for everyone attending.

Rob Starr, Founder & Chairman of the Starr Trust said

‍“We are really touched by the kind ongoing support from Upside Down House Brighton, who this year will be donating 5% of all their ticket sales during December to the Starr Trust. BAi360 are also kindly supporting us by showing our new charity film on the pod and collecting donations on their Santa Flights. I can’t thank these two businesses enough”.

Tom Dirse, CEO of the Upside Down House UK told us

‍"I come from a place similar to the children and young adults that the Starr Trust supports, I was motivated by a course I did with The Prince's Trust, so I know how beneficial a charity like the Starr Trust is to young people who struggle with getting into work and who need guidance. After finding out how the Starr Trust works with young people, it was a natural transition to get involved.”

Jason Burrill, Actor and Big Brother Winner said

“It’s been an honour working with the Starr Trust recently… It’s incredible that for nearly 14 years they have been helping young people overcome all types of life roadblocks and personal circumstances that could stop them pursuing their dreams. To date they have supported over 4000 young people and this number is still growing which is amazing. EVERY single penny raised goes to help and support any obstacle they may come across and I look forward to being involved with the wonderful The Starr Trust charity in the future.”