Uncategorised

Gabbi Basra Memorial Fund Supports Piyush

Karen Laister Uncategorised

Piyush Halder, the grandson of one of our long-serving staff members, is a remarkable example of resilience in the face of adversity. From a young age, Piyush has encountered significant personal challenges, including family separation and, more recently, the loss of his mother following a battle with breast cancer.

Despite these hardships and limited financial resources, his family remained steadfast in their commitment to his education. At a critical juncture in his academic journey, the Gabbi Basra Memorial Fund stepped in through our sponsorship programme, providing much-needed support as he entered Class XI.

With this timely assistance, Piyush has been able to continue his studies without interruption. We are pleased to share that he has successfully progressed to Class XII and remains focused and determined to achieve his goals.

As he prepares for the upcoming West Bengal Higher Secondary Examinations, Piyush’s journey stands as a testament to courage, perseverance, and the transformative impact of timely support. His story highlights how targeted interventions can help young individuals overcome adversity and continue striving toward a brighter future.

The Gabbi Basra Bursary funds talented students to access further education and vocational training opportunities

New treasurer on epic cycle ride to raise funds for CRS

Karen Laister Fundraising, Uncategorised

In early May, to raise funds for CRS, Paul Doran is taking on an incredible cycling journey from Málaga to Bilbao covering approximately 1,200 km!

Paul, along with a friend, will begin by cycling along the coast towards Granada, before turning inland to Albacete. From there, they’ll tackle the stunning (and challenging!) Sierra Nevada mountains, ride through the famous Rioja vineyards, continue on to Zaragoza, and finally complete their journey in Bilbao.

And here’s the real challenge — they’re doing it all on standard bikes with no assisted power.

This is an amazing effort for a great cause. If you’d like to support Paul and learn more about his journey, please visit his Just Giving page

Paul and Michelle Doran

Paul recently Treasurer for the Friends of the Cathedral Relief Service in April 2026. He has recently retired after a long career in the aluminium industry, where he held senior positions in multinational companies. Hobbies including hockey, squash, tennis, cycling and now pickle ball.He writes about his appointment:

I became involved after my friend Crispin returned from visiting the charity in Kolkata. The pictures and videos he shared were truly inspiring and motivated me to take on this challenge in support of their work.

Support Paul’s sponsored cycle ride

Dr Henry – Obituary

Neil Swan Uncategorised

Dr Henry with a child patient.

It is 25 years since Dr.Henry first started her work with CRS, looking after the health of the poorest of the poor in the slums of Kolkata.  As a doctor she was determined to ensure, even at the age of 97 years, that the children and women received the very best medical advice she could offer.

Dr.Henry had a generous heart, and when she saw people in distress she often supported them in any way she could, even financially.  Recently she had the opportunity of meeting visitors from abroad including students and teachers from Derby University, Doctors from New Zealand and visitors from Little St Mary’s Church in Cambridge.  She enjoyed her contact with them and they were left with a lasting impress of her kindness, love and compassion.

May her soul rest in the peace that passeth all understanding.