hackney,
04
March
2015
|
14:31
Europe/London

Speaker's Gala Dinner raises thousands of pounds for charities

speakerofhackney039sgaladinner2015img_7569.jpg

More than £8,000 was raised for charities through generous donations from guests at the Hackney Speaker’s annual Dinner Gala on Friday evening.

Local business people, mayors from across London, councillors and guests came together for the fundraising celebration, with all the money divided between the Speaker’s chosen charities: The Sharp End, a healthy living centre for people aged 50+ in Hackney; Laburnum Boat Club, a locally-based youth project; and the Alzheimer's Society, which helps those affected by the disease.

Wine tasting, a canal cruise, six-month Hackney gym membership, and a dinner party with a personal chef were just some of the fabulous raffle prizes kindly donated by a range of businesses, many local, which along with ticket sales and on-the-night donations helped raise £8,190.

The 120 guests were entertained by singer Camara Fearon, the Estilo String Quartet, and Magician Josh of Deceptive Arts, at the Assembly Rooms, in Hackney Town Hall. The evening concluded with a disco with DJ Fiona Meeks.

 

Cllr Sharon Patrick, Speaker of Hackney
The night was a great success and I'm humbled so many mayors from across the capital came to support it. I’m really proud that the gala has raised thousands of pounds for my very special charities. I would like to thank all those who dug deep on the night; their kind donations will be going to improving the lives of people both locally and further afield.

I would also like to extend special gratitude to the numerous businesses who donated raffle prizes.
Cllr Sharon Patrick, Speaker of Hackney

Jim Armstrong, Coordinator the Laburnum Boat Club, said: “Sharon and her team have made a great effort and we extend our congratulations and much appreciation to them. Throughout the year they have organised and successfully run a series of fundraising ventures that continues up to June. We feel honoured to be chosen as one of the recipient charities.

“The funds raised will be a very welcome boost for the club, enabling us to buy additional boats and equipment - ensuring that children and young people from around the borough, especially those with disabilities, can enjoy canoeing, kayaking and narrowboating on the Regents Canal, and on trips away.

“Many thanks to all who worked so hard, and to those who generously contributed.”