Another million-pound-plus fundraiser… and this time an incredible £1,081,227 raised for some truly amazing causes. Even writing that number still feels surreal.

The pressure was definitely on this year. Expectations were high, the stakes were even higher, but once again, everyone brought their A-game. From the generosity in the room to the energy on stage, it was one of those nights where everything just came together.

The Dr Michael Josephson MBE Farewell Ball at the Manchester Deansgate Hotel was a truly special evening. The room was filled with friends, supporters and an incredible guestlist including Graham Norton, Heather Small, Jorgie Porter, Kelvin and Liz Fletcher, and of course my good friends Christopher Biggins and many more. It was a celebration not just of fundraising, but of community, connection and shared purpose.

And the entertainment… wow.

We were treated to a high-energy opening performance from Chesney Hawkes, who had the whole room on its feet, followed by an unforgettable set from Gabrielle, whose voice brought a real sense of magic to the evening. Nights like this remind me just how powerful music can be when it’s combined with such an important cause.

Of course, the fundraising itself was extraordinary. The grand auction played a huge part, with standout lots including the Boodles Argyle Pink Diamonds, a game of padel with Ryan Giggs, and a stunning piece of artwork by Mr Brainwash. We were also incredibly grateful to Freddie Flintoff and Piers Morgan for donating a fantastic auction prize in support of the Manchester MediCinema Appeal.

Most importantly, the funds raised will go on to support five main beneficiary charities: Variety, the Children’s Charity, The Anne Frank Trust, Mahdlo Youth Zone, Rainbow Trust and the Seashell Trust, alongside a number of smaller charities across the North West. Making sure those smaller causes are not overlooked is something that has always been very important to me.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our headline sponsors, Zeno Ltd and Godel Technologies, and the phenomenal team at Julie Perry Events, who once again delivered a night to remember.

I’m so proud, so grateful, and honestly quite humbled.

But as always… we keep going.

Stay tuned to see exactly where this money goes and the lives it will help change.