Celebrities join forces with Guide Dogs for Guinness World Record attempt at world’s biggest virtual tea party

Martin Clunes, Gregg Wallace, Imelda Staunton, Bill Turnbull and many more are inviting the public to come together for a cuppa in lockdown and raise funds for the charity Guide Dogs.

COVID-19 continues to impact all of us, the national pastime of catching up with friends for a nice cup of tea is on hold. So, Guide Dogs is planning the world’s biggest virtual tea party, to bring the country back together online for a cup of tea, a slice of cake – and the company of some wonderful guide dogs.

A host of famous faces are helping spread the word of the event taking place for National Tea Day, on Tuesday 21st April. They’ll be sharing photos of themselves enjoying a cup of tea and some of their favourite cake and biscuit recipes.

Tea party virtual guests can expect to be entertained by videos and photos of all things Guide Dogs, as well as the opportunity to be part of a Guinness World Record attempt as the charity ask supporters to share a selfie enjoying their favourite cuppa between 3pm and 4pm.

Martin Clunes said: “The charity Guide Dogs does such incredible work year-round supporting people with sight loss, and that work is more important than ever now. I know I’m finding lockdown hard enough to deal with, but for people with sight loss, social isolation can be there every day. That’s why I’ll be raising a cup and supporting Guide Dogs. I hope many others will join me to raise lots of money and hopefully achieve a Guinness World Record.”

Anyone interested in joining in the Great Guide Dogs Virtual Tea Party should click ‘going’ or ‘interested’ on the event on the Guide Dogs Facebook page: https://bit.ly/2UXsKf8. Guide Dogs is asking those who take part to donate the price of a cup of tea to help them continue their vital work supporting adults and children with sight loss.

Pam White, Fundraising Manager at Guide Dogs said: “Over the last few years our wonderful supporters have been hosting tea parties around the country on National Tea Day and donating the proceeds to Guide Dogs. Whilst that isn’t possible in person this year, we’re excited to host our first ever virtual tea party, which will give everyone the chance to join our #GuideDogsFamily and make a difference.”

“In these uncertain times we have adapted our services so we can continue to help those with sight loss. We also remain committed to the welfare of our 8,000 dogs, which are being cared for across the UK. Our income is dropping and it costs £13 a day to support each of our life changing dogs – that’s £100,000 every single day. Donating the cost of your cuppa on National Tea will ensure people with sight loss don’t feel alone now, and in the future.”.

For more information please visit www.guidedogs.org.uk/teatime