10 year-old Etienne Langlois, Cowbridge, was invited to take part in the Prime Minister’s Christmas Tree light switch on at No 10 Downing Street last Wednesday 6 December.
Etienne recently raised over £1,100 for Children in Need by shaving off his hair. In light of this achievement, Etienne was contacted by the office of Rt Hon Alun Cairns MP, informing him that, in recognition of his fundraising effort, Etienne had been selected to take part in a reception at 10 Downing Street, followed by the lighting of the Christmas Tree.
The invitation was extended to Etienne’s sister Maud and his mother Karine, who 'could not quite believe the turn of events'.
After a personal guided tour of the Palace of Westminster, the family were met by Mr Cairns who accompanied them to 10 Downing Street.
The reception gave the family the opportunity to explore the rooms rarely seen by the public. The Prime Minister Theresa May herself joined the reception before heading back to Parliament for Brexit discussions.
Following the reception the guests gathered outside for the turning on of the No.10 Christmas Tree. The countdown to the switch-on commenced on the Prime Minister's call with traditional carol singing and an opportunity for the children to take photographs in front of the iconic No.10 door.
Etienne, who had handwritten a Christmas card to give to the Prime Minister at the reception, said, “I still feel very honoured by the incredible and unforgettable privilege I have been offered: an invitation to No 10 Downing Street!”.
Speaking of Etienne's visit, Vale MP Alun Cairns added, “I was ever so proud to see a child from the Vale of Glamorgan take part in the turning on of the Christmas lights at No. 10 Downing Street. Etienne is a caring, polite and generous boy and it was a pleasure to welcome him and his family to Whitehall for this festive event. He is a credit to his parents and to his community!”