Mayor of Hounslow Visits Isleworth Advent Windows Trail as Community Rallies Behind Young People’s Mental Health
The Isleworth community received a special visitor on 17 December, when Amy Croft, the Mayor of Hounslow, joined residents of Castle Road, Grainger Road and Nottingham Road to celebrate their annual Advent Windows fundraiser and support their efforts on behalf of the Mayor’s chosen charity for 2025–2026 — Hounslow Youth Counselling Service (HYCS).
Adding to the fun, the Mayor arrived in style in a Christmas camper van and the HYCS fundraiser was also streamed live on BBC London News in the evening show, 17 Dec 25 with residents joining the mayor in the festive advent trail.
Throughout December, the three streets once again transformed into a vibrant “living advent calendar”, unveiling a new illuminated window each day from 1–24 December. This year’s trail has already attracted hundreds of visitors, and the community has raised £1200+ to date, with hopes high that they will reach — and surpass — their £2,000 fundraising target by Christmas Eve.
HYCS — a local charity based just steps away from the TW7 fundraisers — provides free and confidential counselling for 11–25-year-olds across the entire London Borough of Hounslow. With demand for young people’s mental-health support rising, the community’s efforts are helping ensure vital services remain accessible to those who need them most.
Mayor praises community spirit
During the visit, the Mayor met residents, viewed the latest illuminated windows, and thanked organisers for their commitment to supporting young people.
Amy Croft, the Mayor of Hounslow said:
“It was a joy to visit the Advent Windows and see the creativity, kindness and community spirit shining across these Isleworth streets. HYCS provides a lifeline to young people in our borough, and I am hugely grateful to residents for choosing to support the Mayor’s Charity this year. Their efforts embody the very best of Hounslow Borough — people coming together to make a real difference.”
Residents inspired and determined to hit their goal
Organisers described the Mayor’s visit as a welcome show of support. A Castle Road resident - Donna Gutteridge said:
“It means a lot to have the Mayor come and see what our community is doing. We are a normal street but have extra special people living on and around it which makes for an extraordinary community. Each year we want to make a difference and this year we are supporting our neighbours at Hounslow Youth Counselling Service because HYCS is supporting vulnerable young people in our neighbourhoods — it could be your son, daughter, grandchild, niece, nephew or a friend who needs someone to talk to. We’re proud to be backing them and with over £1200 already raised, we’re pushing hard to reach our £2000 target by Christmas Eve.”
HYCS expresses gratitude as demand for support continues to rise
HYCS said the visit and the community’s commitment have been both encouraging and uplifting.
Patricia David, Head of Service at HYCS, said:
“We are deeply grateful for the warmth and generosity shown by the residents of Castle, Grainger and Nottingham Roads. As a local charity serving 11–25-year-olds across Hounslow Borough, community support truly makes a difference. The Mayor’s visit has added to the sense of celebration, and the funds raised will help us continue offering vital counselling to young people who need someone to listen to them.”
Visitors and supporters who have not yet contributed are encouraged to donate if they can to show support for HYCS and the TW7 residents efforts.
How to donate:
- HYCS Instagram @hycs.youth - click on the TW7 Advent Windows Linktree
- Donate via the Hounslow Youth Counselling Service JustGiving Site https://www.justgiving.com/page/christmas-advent-windows-25
- Scan the QR code below
