Construction’s top networking event of the year broke all fundraising records for the charity as supporters raised almost £290,000, a staggering amount for the construction community.
Held on Friday 6th December at the Westminster Park Plaza and despite travel disruptions on the rail network, over 950 guests arrived to a warm welcome at the drinks reception in anticipation of an afternoon of top class entertainment.
Once again, rugby presenter and commentator David Flatman, ‘Flats,’ along with Ellie Costello, Weekend Breakfast presenter and journalist, opened up proceedings with a hint of the sporting guests to come.
Edward Naylor and Lyndsey Gallagher, Co-Chairs of the Trustees, formally opened the proceedings and paid tribute to two industry stalwarts Des O’Rourke and John Carey who had passed away earlier in the year, prompting a respectful standing ovation from the room. Former CEO Bill Hill was also presented with a commemorative Lighthouse pin and bottle of whiskey in recognition of his service to the charity.
Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity delivered an update on the charitable services delivered, highlighting a record number of families helped, financial support and sites visited.
Auctioneer Addison Gelpey took control of the room as he mastered some deft battles of bidding for top live auction lots including holidays, sporting memorabilia, concert tickets and unique sporting experiences.
VIP guests from the sporting arena were then welcomed to the stage. Kicking off proceedings was former Liverpool and England International footballer John Barnes, along with former England rugby centre Mike Tindall and Savannah Marshall, British Professional Boxer and MMA fighter.
Sarah Bolton, Lighthouse Charity CEO, expressed her extreme gratitude to everyone that supported the event, “This is our opportunity to reflect on our charity’s achievements throughout the year: the services we’ve delivered and the people we have helped. But most of all it’s to celebrate the successes of our fantastic supporters.
Whether you are helping us to spread the message of support, organising fundraising, committing to be an annual company supporter or attending one of our events, you are helping us to make a life changing and lifesaving impact for our construction community.“
I am completely amazed at the amount of money raised, we’ve surpassing all previous fundraising events. Guests were hugely generous with their support of the live and silent auction, raffle entries and donations on the day. We know how tough it is out there at the moment which makes it all the more meaningful. A huge thank you goes out to everyone that supported us, whether it was volunteering behind the scenes, booking tables, sponsoring the event or donating auction items, thank you so much.”
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