More than 260 people attended the Milton Keynes Hospital Charity’s Gala Ball on Friday 13 September, in aid of its Cancer Centre Appeal.
And despite it being Friday the thirteenth, the date proved very lucky for the charity, with the event raising a staggering £23,000 – thanks to the generosity of guests, sponsors Galliford Try, a raffle and live and silent auctions.
The Gala Ball was held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Bletchley, and as well as dinner and dancing, guests were treated to a very special performance from Strictly Come Dancing’s Neil and Katya Jones.
This was swiftly followed by a grand auction, with celebrity auctioneer Charles Hanson giving guests the opportunity to win prizes such as signed Dele Alli football boots, a bespoke necklace donated by Woolfe Jewellery and a week-long Tesla driving experience.
The Strictly dancers then auctioned off the opportunity for a one on one dance with guests, at £1,000 each!
The evening was hosted by actor and singer Thomas Cove.
Head of Fundraising Vanessa Holmes said: “The evening was a huge success and we are delighted to have raised so much money for the Milton Keynes Hospital Charity Cancer Centre Appeal.”
“The 260 people who attended the evening had a very enjoyable night and we are extremely grateful for their generosity and to the generosity of our sponsors.
“A huge thanks also go to our organising committee and Matt Cove from Events Managed, who volunteered his time to support the event before, during and after!”
All the funds raised are supporting the new Cancer Centre at Milton Keynes University Hospital, which will transform cancer care for the local area; bringing most cancer treatment sites under one roof and creating a bright, welcoming and more spacious place for patients undergoing cancer treatment, as well as their families and the staff who treat them.
