The stars came out to shine at The Shooting Star Ball

The Shooting Star Ball, celebrated its 19th year, as 350 guests arrived at The Royal Lancaster Hotel, hosted by Patrons Jackie and Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen. Guests were entertained by a surprise performance from Britain’s Got Talent 2023 winner Viggo Venn; with Rob Lamberti giving a phenomenal performance as George Michael in tribute to the late singer’s 60^th birthday. Following his incredible performance at Glastonbury and his sell-out shows at The Royal Albert Hall, Rick Astley, headlined with his band, performing a string of his famous hits.

 

Vice-President Tony Hadley MBE, spoke passionately on stage on how much the charity means to him and his fellow Vice-Presidents and Patrons. Although unable to be there due to filming commitments, Vice-President Simon Cowell and Patron Lauren Silverman joined the evening via video link from LA to talk about their commitment to the charity. Also in attendance on the night were Dame Joan Collins DBE, Julian Clary, Charlie Mullins OBE, Dutch sensation Rene Froger and Julie Forsyth, whose father Sir Bruce Forsyth was the first person to host an event for the charity 20 years ago.

 

 

 

Guests enjoyed a three-course ‘winter warmer’ dinner, before taking part in a money-can’t-buy auction hosted by auctioneer Charlie Ross. Auction prizes included a special ‘Mamma Mia’ prize and flying to Paris for lunch with Dame Joan at The Eiffel Tower, which alone raised £60,000.

Karen Sugarman MBE, Executive Vice-President of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices said, “The Shooting Star Ball is such a special evening. I am so grateful to all the incredible performers who gave their time to make it so fantastic. We are so overwhelmed with the generosity of every single guest. Without whom, we simply would not be able to provide the vital care to children and families facing the unimaginable circumstances.”

Paul Farthing, Chief Executive of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices said, “It’s been a phenomenal evening and I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone involved in making such an extraordinary event possible. It’s great to be able to come together and highlight how vitally important their continued support is, in order for us to be there for children with life-limiting conditions and their families, now and long into the future.”