The West Indian Families and Friends Association (WIFFA) marked its 41st Anniversary Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, 7 June 2026, at St Augustine’s Church, Broadwater Road, Tooting, bringing together members, supporters, and invited guests for a joyful occasion of worship and celebration.
Founded in 1985, WIFFA was established by Barbadians Tony Broome, Tony Sandiford, Neville Blackett, Philip Roach, Ervine Scantlebury, Darcy Farley, Winston Hunte, Sylvester Best and Joe Headley, who came together with a shared vision of uniting people of Caribbean heritage, particularly those concerned with issues affecting both the United Kingdom and Barbados.
The presence of more than fifteen community groups reflected the association’s strong standing within the local community and the wide support it continues to enjoy.
The service was a joyful and uplifting celebration. Fr Walcott delivered a powerful sermon, and the congregation sang the chosen hymns with enthusiasm, accompanied by the accomplished organ playing of Father David Hoyte. Reflecting on the occasion, Bishop Rosemarie described it as “joyous and wonderful.”Rev. Angela Rayner, Vicar of Higher Tooting, assisted during the service.
Among those attending was the Mayor of Merton for 2026/27, Councillor Shuile Syeda, together with Merton councillors Agatha Akyigyina OBE, Edith McCauley MBE and Joan Henry.
With the theme From Strength to Strength, the service was led by the Right Reverend Rosemarie Mallet, Bishop of Croydon.
Music was provided by the Reverend David Hoyte on the organ, while Clairmonte Bexhill and Victor Brewster served as flag bearers. The ushers were Steve Payne, Vivienne Belgrave, Carmen Browne, and Marilyn Watkins-Massiah.
