Big Heart Ball raises £100,000

TV presenter Richard Madeley hosted a spectacular ball which raised over £100,000 to help people and their families who need hospice care. 

Saint Francis Hospice held the Big Heart Ball in the Grand Connaught Rooms in London on Saturday 12th November.

The hospice’s Patron Richard, who was there with his wife Judy Finnigan, gave the evening a star quality as he introduced the entertainment - including a special surprise performance by fellow Patron, Grammy-award winning musician Imogen Heap. 

Guests also enjoyed a sparkling drinks reception, a delicious three course meal and live music by the international showband Jam Hot. 

Hospice fundraiser Andy Furneaux, who is also a well-known local DJ, AKA The Candy Man, kept everyone on their toes with a great mix of music. 

“Our 350 guests had a wonderful time and many of them were still on the dancefloor at 1am,” said MaryAnne Donovan, Major Partnerships Manager and the event organiser.

“One of the highlights of the evening was the superbly talented quick artist Dave Sharp, who produced an amazing painting of Queen Elizabeth in under 10 minutes, which was then auctioned for £16,000. 

“All evening, our guests were generous and dug deep to support the Hospice. Overall, the Big Heart Ball raised over £100,000 ??" which will help pay for 14 patients who need 24-hour care on our ward supported by our consultants, doctors and nurses.

“Huge thanks to everyone involved. It was a great night, made even more special by knowing that so much money was raised to help local people.”