£1,081,227 raised at this year’s Dr Michael Josephson MBE Farewell Ball

Graham Norton, Chesney Hawkes, Gabrielle and Christopher Biggins led a star-studded guestlist in aid of children’s and youth charities.

The Manchester Deansgate Hotel was transformed on March 14th for a dazzling celebration of philanthropy and performance, as friends, supporters, and celebrity guests gathered at the Dr Michael Josephson MBE Farewell Ball raising £1,081,227 for children’s charities across the North-West.

The event marked the culmination of Dr Michael Josephson MBE’s remarkable charity work and brought together an array of talent from television, music, theatre and business. Attendees included Graham Norton, Heather Small, Jorgie Porter and Christopher Biggins, who all joined the evening in recognition of Dr Michael Josephson MBE’s dedication to children’s and youth causes across the country.

Entertainment was a major highlight of the night, with a stunning live performance from Gabrielle, who captivated the room with a set of her much-loved hits including Dreams and Out of Reach as well as a high energy opener by Chesney Hawkes, whose voice brought the audience to its feet and provided a truly memorable moment for guests.

The grand auction on the evening further boosted the fundraising total. Coveted lots included a set of Boodles Argyle Pink Diamonds worth £50,000, a game of padel with Ryan Giggs and a highly collectible original piece of artwork titled ‘Pop Wall’ by acclaimed artist Mr Brainwash, donated by Clarendon Fine Art.

The evening was supported by former England cricketer and TV personality Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff and journalist and TV presenter Piers Morgan, with the two friends donating a lunch to be enjoyed with eight guests at an exclusive London location.

Speaking following the event, Dr Michael Josephson MBE said: “I am deeply grateful to everyone who supported this evening – from the performers and donors to every single guest in the room. To see such generosity and goodwill come together in one place is truly humbling, and a perfect finale for the Dr Michael Josephson MBE Farewell Ball.

Now in its seventh year, The Dr Michael Josephson MBE Farewell Ball has raised millions for charities.

Tonight’s fundraiser will support five main beneficiaries, including Variety, the Children’s Charity, Mahdlo Youth Zone, The Anne Frank Trust, Seashell Trust and Rainbow Trust – who all work with children and young people in need. Funds will also be used to support small charities throughout the Northwest.

The spectacular event is presented by world renowned celebrity event planner, Julie Perry Events, and supported by headline sponsor, Godel Technologies and Zeno Limited.