Esther Rantzen attends charity film premiere (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

TV presenter highlights work of Demand charity

5:10pm Tuesday 27th November 2012 in News By Rebecca Perring, Reporter

Visitors flocked to a film premiere in St Albans hosted by television presenter Esther Rantzen to display the work of a charity dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities.

Ms Rantzen, who has been the patron of charity Demand - Design and Manufacture for Disability - attended the social evening in St Michael’s Manor Hotel, to display the charity’s very own film, featuring the moving true life stories of some of the clients they have helped.

The promotional video was aired at the hotel in Fishpool Street on Thursday (November 22), organised by Denise Gillies, the regional fundraising manager.

Demand designer Paul Malloy proved his ability to swing on double bass with his band, La Bouche Manouche.

Eleven-year-old Leah was welcomed as star guest - she performed on her trumpet and stars in the promotional film which highlights the role of the charity to help its clients gain freedom to take part in day-to-day tasks or activities most people take for granted.

Leah is disabled on one side of her body and Demand installed a camera monopod on to her trumpet to enable her to enjoy playing the trumpet at ease.

Katherine, who is a trustee of the charity, said: "The video is brilliant and congratulations to the team.

"I think this is a wonderful vehicle to show what Demand is all about.

"Watching it made me very proud to be part of the team and I am sure it will help us bring the organisation to life for many others."

The film was put together by Mischke Weinreb, who was presented with a bouquet on the night.