Screen icon Stephanie Beacham, who has just announced her Coronation Street return, will join king of the jungle Christopher Biggins and a host of stars at one of Manchester's biggest fundraising gala balls. The event will see a star performance from M-People icon Heather Small as the Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball returns to Manchester.
Over 450 guests will gather at the Hilton Deansgate for the charity gala on Saturday November 12. A dazzling array of celebrities are also confirmed to attend, including Harry Potter star Warwick Davies, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes, Hollyoaks sirens Jen Metcalfe and Tamara Wall and ice-skating legends Jayne Torvil and Christopher Dean.
The event – which is in its fifth year – is the brainchild of philanthropist and entrepreneur Michael, who has raised a staggering £7.5m for children’s charities. Charity beneficiaries for this year’s event include Variety, The Children’s Charity, Oldham-based Mahdlo Youth Zone and The Rainbow Trust.
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Fundraising on the night will come in the form of a grand auction, led by radio star Darren Proctor. Auction lots have all been generously donated and include a rare Cullinan diamond from Boodles worth £50,000 and an original piece from international street artist, Mr Brainwash.
A silent auction has now been launched online and will close on the night, which has already raised £40,000. It will be added to the totaliser on the night for what is expected to, once again, be one of Manchester's biggest single fundraising nights.
Entrepreneur Michael said: “As ever, we have received fantastic support from world renowned brands and personalities from the worlds of showbiz and sport to lay on an event to be truly proud of.
"Tickets sold out at a rate we’ve never before experienced, and we are hoping to raise huge amounts for three incredible charities, who do so much to secure equality for and create a support network to children in need across the region.
“This year, we’ve enlisted the help of global event planner Julie Perry Events to create the best possible gala experience for guests, with our main focus is to raise serious amounts of money and I have no doubt that this year’s event will be the best yet.”
This year’s headline performer, Heather Small, said: “I am excited, and privileged, to be part of such a great event. I am so happy to be supporting Michael in raising the profile of these great causes."
Tickets for the event have completely sold out, but the online auction is open for all to bid on now here. It includes auction lots like rare artwork, signed football shirts, VIP experiences and a year's supply of chocolate.
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