The Benevolent Ball hailed a "huge" success

By Lisa Riley

Published: 21 March, 2017

More than £42,000 were raised at The Benevolent Ball last Thursday, with a record number of senior members and noted personalities from the UK drinks industry gathered in support of the trade charity to raise funds for their colleagues in need.

Taking place at The Dorchester, the charity's flagship event had been the "most successful and enjoyable" ball to date, said chief executive David Cox, adding The Benevolent was indebted to its generous sponsors and all those that supported it.

"Its always a very popular event, but this year we had a record attendance with tickets sold out and there was a palpable buzz of engagement in the room."

The evening began with a 'Salon des Champagnes' networking reception, after which guests were welcomed by The Benevolent's chairman Tom Yusef. During his opening remarks, Yusef paid tribute to the charity's late trustee and past chairman Dan Townsend, remembering his "impeccable service" as a member of the Board of Trustees.

The evening's guest speaker was one of the charity's beneficiaries, Mike Mackenzie, who explained how the charity had provided him with financial and practical help for many years, but most importantly how the emotional support received during his "very difficult time" had been "so welcome".

He also urged members of the trade to support "their charity".

In December last year, The Benevolent revealed it had raised £37,700 for colleagues in need via its first silent auction - Thanks for Giving, held the month before.

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