Food, Friendship and a Flame: A Charity Social for Peace
Keith Squires’ Ayurvedic Cookery Demonstration
A Community Gathering
A warm and relaxed charity social hosted by Keith and Samia Squires in Westerham — the historic town once home to Winston Churchill — brought together guests from across London for an uplifting early evening of food, storytelling and connection, raising money in support of the World Peace Flame’s peace education projects for schools.
Venue hosts, Karunesh and Ruby
A Welcoming Local Venue
Held at Esquires Coffee, the gathering marked the first in a planned series of community-based events designed to bring people together while supporting meaningful causes. Although part of a wider franchise, the Westerham café is very much a locally run business, led by Michelin chef Karunesh and his wife Ruby, who are passionate about creating a welcoming space for community events.
Reflecting on the evening, Karunesh said, “We are just so delighted that this was the first, and we hope to have many more.”
Cooking With Love in Action
Described as a “charity social,” the event offered a gentle and informal setting where guests could meet, share ideas and connect. The evening included an engaging Ayurvedic cookery demonstration, tastings, and storytelling, alongside a book signing by Keith Squires, author of Cooking With Love. Books were also donated as part of the fundraising effort.
Guests received World Peace Flames
The Story of the Flame
Guests received a World Peace Flame candle to take home — a symbolic reminder of the shared intention of the gathering — along with a seasonal detox programme designed to support wellbeing as the seasons change.
Speaking after the event, Keith said: “We really wanted to overdeliver, as this was our first charity social of the year. It felt important to create something generous and meaningful — and something we can continue building on.”
The evening also sparked new connections within the local community, with guests introducing one another and opening up opportunities for future collaborations, including invitations for guest speaking and involvement in local groups and networks.
Book sales were donated too!
New Connections, New Possibilities
Events like this highlight how simple, community-led gatherings can create both immediate impact and lasting connections — supporting the wider peace education work of the World Peace Flame while strengthening local communities.
Further charity socials are planned throughout the year.