Disability Charity displays real "Blitz spirit"

On 7 July, the Dorchester Hotel in London was the special venue for the Platinum Ball which was held in aid of disability charity Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation, celebrating its 70 th Anniversary year. One month on and support is still coming in for the Foundation.

Due to the terrorist attacks there was initially some concern over whether the event could go ahead. However, many supporters of the Foundation invoked the ‘Blitz spirit’ and attended despite the terrorist threat.

Due to security concerns Their Royal Highnesses the Earl and Countess of Wessex were sadly unable to attend. Strictly Come Dancing stars Erin Boag and Anton du Beke amazed guests with a whirlwind demonstration of ball-room dancing.

Moving speeches by Lord Hamilton (Foundation Chairman) and Malcolm Cockren (Co-chair of the Platinum Ball Committee) who read H.R.H the earl of Wessex’s speech, paid tribute to the charity’s proud history of innovation, the courage and determination of its clients over the decades and the continuing inspiration of the memory of the Foundation’s late patron, Her Majesty the Queen Mother in the work, mission, vision and values of the Organisation today.

Jacqui Walford, Director of Fundraising at the Foundation, looks back on a memorable evening: “There was a fantastic atmosphere of anticipation in the air and Anton and Erin’s brilliant dance displays provided an excellent entrée into the dancing proper. Despite the difficult circumstances in London that evening the Foundation’s supporters rose to the occasion and had a wonderful time. The Event generated £50,000 in all and we would like to thank everyone involved for their unstinting and generous support. It was a remarkable event and is one that will be long remembered with great fondness”.

About Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation - Queen Elizabeth's Foundation is a registered charity based in Surrey and Kent providing solutions to the needs of people with disabilities through the work of its five sites specialising in education, vocational training, brain injury rehabilitation, skills development, mobility as well as an information service.

About Anton and Erin - For details on Anton and Erin please visit their website www.antonanderin.com