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The Benevolent Ball raises over £42,000
UK drinks industry charity The Benevolent raised more than £42,000 (US$52,000) during its annual fundraising ball last week, which celebrated record attendance.
David Cox (left) with Mixellany’s Anistatia Miller and Jared Brown
Held at London’s The Dorchester hotel, The Benevolent hosted a “record number” of senior industry members and noted personalities, who collectively raised £42,000 for their colleagues in need.
Ahead of dinner, guests attended the ‘Salon des Champagnes’ reception to take part in the ‘Sparkling Tombola’, where every ticket won a golden box of sparkling wine bottles.
The Benevolent’s newly appointed chairman Tom Yusef paid tribute to the charity’s late trustee and former chairman Dan Townsend, who sadly died earlier this month. Mike Mackenzie, a beneficiary of the charity, also spoke to guests about how The Benevolent has supported him over a number of years.
The launch of the ‘Taittinger Collection Grand Draw’ was described as the “highlight” of the evening, offering £20 online tickets for the chance of winning a 13-strong collection of rare Champagne vintages.
The Champagnes are presented in bottles designed by world renowned artists that have been released by Champagne Taittinger over the last 35 years. The results of the draw will be revealed on 6 July during the IWC Awards Dinner.
Band SUPERfreak performed as the Hi-Spirits Cocktail Bar offered a selection of drinks, while those partial to a flutter had access to casino tables.
“The Benevolent Ball is our flagship fundraising event of the year and is always a very popular event,” said David Cox, chief executive of The Benevolent.
“However, this year we had a record attendance with tickets sold out and we judged it to be our most successful and enjoyable Ball with a palpable buzz of engagement in the room. We are indebted to our generous sponsors and all those who supported us.”
Founded in 1886, The Benevolent aims to help past and present drinks industry professionals facing serious medical or financial hardship, or any other workplace or home difficulties.