We are pleased to say that the 2024 Annual Dinner saw attendance numbers at almost 340 with a record amount raised for charities. The Executive Committee would like to thank all host companies for making the event such a success
As a change from the normal, it had been decided that the speeches would be prior to the meal. The aim being that all formalities could be dealt with early in the evening leaving the rest of the night for socialising and fund raising. For a number of reasons, the change in running order didn’t go entirely to plan but we hope that this had minimum impact on our guests enjoyment of the night.
Our new President, Matthew Tickle, made a great speech but was unfortunately hindered by problems with the sound system which meant that not all tables were able to hear him clearly. We are researching alternative sound systems for 2025 so hopefully these issues will no longer occur.
Our thanks go to The Leeds First Direct Arena, who donated a private suite to see Waterloo – A Tribute to Abba, and the DoubleTree by Hilton who donated 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast for 2 people. The generosity of these companies and all the guests who supported the live auction, prize draw and the silent auction enabled us to raise a fantastic £11,726 on the night.
This amazing amount will make a massive difference to people’s lives with £2500 being presented to Sally Conner from R.A.B.I. and £6124 donated to the RNLI who were our nominated charity for the proceeds from the silent auction. The balance has been added to our charity pot and will be used to make donations to a wide variety of charities. If you know of a deserving cause that you think we could help please send us details to info@hcfta.co.uk and we will discuss a donation at our next Executive Committee meeting.
We were extremely grateful to Ben Fisher from IAG for hosting the afternoon seminar. Ben was able to join us in person this year for the first time since 2018. We hope that all those who attended found it interesting and productive.
A selection of photographs from the dinner are available to view, if you would like to purchase any copies contact Will Kirk at hello@nighthawkstudio.co.uk
