THE Lighthouse Charity’s annual Christmas lunch raised almost £290,000 for the construction community – a new record.
950 guests attended the event at The Westminster Park Plaza. Rugby presenter and commentator David Flatman, and Ellie Costello, Weekend Breakfast presenter and journalist, opened up proceedings.
Edward Naylor and Lyndsey Gallagher, co-chairs of the trustees formally opened the event and paid tribute to two industry stalwarts – Des O’Rourke and John Carey – who passed away earlier in the year. 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, then delivered an update on the charitable services delivered, highlighting a record number of families helped, financial support and sites visited.
This year saw MACL net the Peter Capel Cup, awarded each year in recognition of outstanding achievements from organisations supporting the charity. MACL’s annual fishathon has raised more than £60,000 since its inception four years ago.
Auctioneer Addison Gelpey took charge of the bidding for 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 to share stories from their careers. Ex-Liverpool and England footballer John Barnes, former England rugby centre Mike Tindall, and Savannah Marshall, British professional boxer and MMA fighter, entertained guests.
Sarah Bolton, Lighthouse Charity CEO, said, “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 life-saving 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.”
The event culminated in a rendition of opera favourites from tenor Martin Toal and violinist Rosie Judge.
If you or anyone you know is struggling, reach out for 24/7 free & confidential support;
24/7 helplines; 0345 605 1956, (UK) 1800 939 122 (ROI)
Live chat www.lighthouseclub.org Text HARDHAT to 85258
Find out more at www.lighthouseclub.org
