Award-winning actor Adrian Lester made a heartfelt return to his hometown of Birmingham today, lending his star power to a major new charity campaign aimed at supporting the city's most vulnerable residents this winter.
Star Support for a Local Cause
The Birmingham-born star, famed for roles in Trigger Point, Riviera, and The Day After Tomorrow, was spotted at the city's New Street Station. His mission was to officially launch and champion Social Bite's Festival of Kindness, which is running in Birmingham for the very first time.
Lester visited the campaign's Tree of Kindness, situated outside All Bar One in the station, to encourage the public to donate. The initiative seeks to collect a staggering 300,000 donations of toys, warm clothing, toiletries, and funds for hot Christmas meals for individuals and families facing hardship.
How the Festival of Kindness Works
Speaking at the launch on 2nd December 2025, Adrian Lester highlighted the simplicity and impact of the campaign. "It was great to see Social Bite's Festival of Kindness in place in Birmingham for the first time," he said. "It's a brilliant, and easy, way for locals to make a huge difference to people who are vulnerable or experiencing homelessness this winter here in Birmingham."
Donations can be made directly at the physical Tree of Kindness or online. The charity has outlined specific ways to help:
- A £28 donation funds a hot Christmas meal, a gift, essential items, and a safe place to sleep for one night for someone experiencing homelessness.
- Supporters can also purchase specific items, such as warm gloves for £10 or a bundle of children's toys and clothing for £100.
A UK-Wide Effort for the Festive Season
While the Birmingham tree is a central focus, Social Bite has installed four other Trees of Kindness across the United Kingdom to maximise the campaign's reach. These are located at:
- London - Charing Cross Station, outside The Clermont Hotel
- Glasgow – Vinicombe Street
- Edinburgh – St Andrew Square
- Aberdeen – outside the Bon Accord Centre
This national effort underscores the widespread need for support during the winter months. For those wishing to contribute virtually or find out more information, the charity directs people to visit: Social-Bite.co.uk/Festival-Of-Kindness.
Adrian Lester's visit has thrown a spotlight on the acute challenges faced by vulnerable communities in his home city, offering a practical and compassionate way for the public to respond during the festive season.
