A FORMER world karate champion raised more than a £1,000 at a dinner for Grenfell survivors.

Members of the community came out to support Conservative councillor Molly Samuel-Leport’s MBE dinner at the Indian Dining Club in Chingford.

Diners raised £1,600 through donations and an auction. Proceeds go to the Kensington and Chelsea Foundation Charity Grenfell Tower fund.

Ms Samuel-Leport MBE said: “With the six month anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire approaching, I wanted to do something to show that those who lost their lives are not forgotten and to support the survivors.

“As Christmas is also so close, I thought it was important to reflect the traditional values of Christmas, through generosity and compassion for others.

“I would like to thank all those who came along and for their kind donations.”

Iain Duncan Smith, Conservative MP for Chingford and Woodford Green, and Zac Goldsmith, MP for Richmond Park, also attended.

A memorial service for the 71 victims of the Grenfell disaster was held at St Paul’s Cathedral on Thursday, December 14.

Ms Samuel-Leport MBE was also European karate champion. She sealed her MBE in 2015 for services to the sport.