MILITARY vs CANCER CHARITY BALL

Grand Hotel – Gosforth Park – Newcastle – 24th September 2022

The Military vs Cancer is an inspiring organisation formed by David and Shelley Bathgate after experiencing the personal loss of friends and relatives. Initially started as a relatively small fundraising initiative, Military vs Cancer quickly caught the imagination of all sectors of the armed forces and evolved to full-blown charity status in 2022.

The centrepiece of the organisation's endeavours is the Annual Charity Ball which serves to both thank those who have contributed throughout the previous year and to raise awareness of the charity's activities more widely. Held in the lavish Conference Room at the Grand Hotel on the outskirts of Newcastle, the third Military vs Cancer Charity Ball was by far the largest and most successful event organised so far.

The gala occasion was attended by almost four hundred guests comprising significant representations from all ranks of the armed forces, sponsors and supporters, plus many people actively involved in fighting and supporting those with the disease. All were treated to a sumptuous three-course dinner and royally entertained by an array of speakers and the fantastic Dust Raisers covers band. Needless to say, a celebratory atmosphere soon engulfed the sparkling room as the drinks flowed, acquaintances reignited, and new friendships formed, all in the name of a great cause.

One of the evening's highlights was, of course, the Silent Auction and Raffle, both of which featured a fabulous selection of prizes, including a signed guitar from Nile Rodgers, exclusive artworks, rare bottles of rum and signed memorabilia donated from numerous sources. In total, the event raised in excess of £28k, which will go a long way to helping the charity support numerous individuals and organisations throughout the coming year.

The BE11A JS Foundation was the primary event sponsor and also contributed a significant auction prize, plus designed and produced all the promotional collateral for the event, including the programme, banners and table plans. Friends of the Foundation from across the country also attended en masse, and many have pledged to embark on their own fundraising initiatives before the next event in 2023.

www.militaryvscancer.com