Andy Devaney
The Martin House Glitter Ball once again proved that a touch of glamour can go a long way in changing lives. Held at the stunning Rudding Park Hotel in Harrogate, the celebrity-filled evening raised more than £212,000 for Martin House Children’s Hospice — a charity that supports children and young people with life-shortening conditions.
It wasn’t short on star power either. The Martin House Glitter Ball drew a full house of famous faces, with celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott swapping his spatula for sequins, and Emmerdale favourites Jeff Hordley, Zoe Henry and Mark Charnock joining in the festivities. Nearly 600 guests packed the ballroom for dinner, dancing, and an auction that turned generosity into record-breaking results.
Hosting duties fell to TV presenter Duncan Wood, who kept the evening flowing faster than the champagne. Clair Holdsworth, chief executive of Martin House, was quick to praise the effort that turned the event into its most successful yet.
“It was a fantastic night – every year is bigger and better, and so many people told us this was the best Glitter Ball yet. We cannot thank our supporters and sponsors enough for their generosity.”
The auction itself was a showstopper. Among the exclusive prizes were a round of golf with England football manager Sir Gareth Southgate and a private dining experience with Ainsley Harriott. Combined with online bids, the total haul from the auctions alone cleared £60,000.
Headlining sponsor HARIBO UK and Ireland once again showed why its relationship with Martin House has lasted nearly two decades. “Our longstanding partnership with Martin House goes back 17 years, and over that time we’ve seen the incredible difference they make,” said John Hughes, managing director at HARIBO UK and Ireland.
“We share their belief in creating special moments of happiness for children and families, and we’re honoured to support their work being there for families across Yorkshire when they need it most. We already can’t wait for what next year holds!”
Other key supporters included KPP Architects, Ello Group, and Berry’s Jewellers, which donated a 1.25-carat diamond necklace as the star prize in the evening’s Ellie’s Gems competition.
The night rounded off with live music from The Phat Cats, a three-course dinner, and fundraising games that kept spirits high well into the night.
The Martin House Glitter Ball has become a calendar highlight for Yorkshire’s charitable scene — a reminder that when good people come together under the same chandelier, remarkable things can happen.
To find out more or donate to Martin House Children’s Hospice, visit www.martinhouse.org.uk/donate.
