LA Zakatek play for James (From Croydon Guardian)

LA Zakatek play for James

1:19pm Wednesday 7th August 2002 in News By Joseph O Shea

Fresh from signing their first major record deal in the United States, local R&B duo, LA Zakatek have given up their time to organise a mini-tour in Croydon in aid of the James Haddad Appeal.

The kind-hearted duo were so touched by the plight of the nine-year-old, who has a life-threatening brain condition, they contacted the Guardian to see how they could help.

Leon Zakatek, 30, and sister Amber both went to St Mary's Junior School near their Guildford Road childhood home in Selhurst, where despite his condition, James is still a pupil.

Amber said: "We were both born and grew up in West Croydon, so when we read about James, we wanted to help."

Children of the Lenny Zakatek of the 80s' band Alan Parson's Project, Leon and Amber have just signed a five-year record deal with American giants All Stars and leave for the States in October.

But before that, they have agreed to do five live performances at local restaurants in aid of the appeal, starting with two dates at My Old China Restaurant in Purley on Wednesday, September 11, and Thursday, September 19.

Leon said: "I don't know how much we can raise for James and his family, but we'll do what we can, especially now we are in a position to use our name to help such a good local cause."

There will also be a fund-raising evening held at Kudos, Purley Way, on September 12 in aid of the Appeal.