As we move through another busy summer, I’ve found myself reflecting on just how much can happen in the space of a few weeks.

There have been moments of celebration, moments of reflection and, most importantly, moments that remind me why I’ve spent so much of my life fundraising.

People often think the fundraising event is the finish line.

In reality, it’s just the beginning.

Once the applause fades and everyone goes home, that’s when the real work starts. It’s when donations begin to transform into something tangible, and that’s undoubtedly the most rewarding part of what I do.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been privileged to announce some incredible donations made possible through the MJ Farewell Ball.

We were delighted to donate £100,000 to Manchester MediCinema, helping bring the magic of cinema into hospitals for children and adults facing some of life’s toughest challenges.

We also announced a £125,000 donation to Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, whose incredible Family Support Workers provide practical and emotional support to families caring for a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness. The work they do is extraordinary, and I’m proud that we can help them continue making such a meaningful difference.

Another moment that meant a great deal to me was announcing a £200,000 donation to the Anne Frank Trust UK. At a time when division and intolerance can so easily dominate the headlines, the Trust’s work educating young people to challenge prejudice, hatred and discrimination has never felt more important. Supporting organisations that encourage understanding, kindness and respect is something I care deeply about, and I’m incredibly proud that the legacy of the Farewell Ball will contribute towards that mission.

But fundraising isn’t only about writing cheques. It’s about seeing the difference those donations make.

Recently, it was wonderful to see the completion of a brand-new accessible toilet -something that may seem like a small project to some, but for the people who will use it every day, it represents dignity, independence and inclusion.

Moments like that don’t always make the front pages, but they’re often the ones that stay with me the longest.

It’s not all been work. I’ve also had the chance to enjoy some wonderful moments with family and friends.

A day at Royal Ascot was a welcome opportunity to step away from the diary for a few hours and enjoy one of Britain’s great sporting and social occasions.

I also thoroughly enjoyed seeing Something Rotten!, such a brilliant reminder of the joy that live theatre brings and just how important the arts are in bringing people together.

Lindon and I also celebrated another wedding anniversary, taking time to reflect on the journey we’ve shared together. Life moves incredibly quickly, and it’s important to pause occasionally to appreciate the people who stand beside us through it all.

Those moments matter just as much as the busy days.

They remind us why balance is important and why making memories with the people we love should never be taken for granted!