The Drinks Trust Gala raises £60,000
Hosted by Graham Norton, The Drinks Trust’s annual Gala raised £60,000 (US$80,500) this week, bringing the charity closer to its £1 million (US$1.2m) target.
Held at Claridge’s in London on Monday 6 October, The Drinks Trust Gala brought together 240 guests for a black-tie event that included an auction.
The Graham Norton Show presenter, who hosted the evening alongside RumFest UK founder Ian Burrell, provided his own wines for the three-course meal.
The Drinks Trust’s online auction, Bidding Together, was concluded during the event, with guests bidding on prizes such as VIP tickets to RumFest, a Silent Pool Royal Ascot VIP experience for four, and an exclusive stay in a villa in Florida.
Nicky Burston, CEO of The Drinks Trust, said: “What an extraordinary evening this has been. Graham Norton and Ian Burrell went above and beyond to make the Gala such a success, helping us exceed our fundraising target and filling the room with genuine warmth and support for our mission.
“We are deeply grateful to them both, as well as to our generous sponsors and guests, whose contributions made this possible. Thanks to the remarkable backing of our industry, we are now just a quarter of a million pounds away from reaching the £1 million target for our Face It Together campaign.”
Funds raised will directly support The Drinks Trust’s work providing practical, emotional, and financial assistance to those who need it most.
Norton added: “It’s been such a joy to host tonight’s Gala, to hear more about the incredible work The Drinks Trust does, and see so much generosity in one room.
“The drinks industry is lucky to have this kind of support – and I’m delighted I could play a small part in raising such an impressive amount.”
The event also presented special awards to companies and individuals who have supported The Drinks Trust’s mission.
For an in-depth interview with Burston, check out the October issue of The Spirits Business, out now.
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