The Story of Christmas once again provided a festive dose of reverence, celebrity and cheer at a stunning two-part event with turns from Britain’s leading lights in film, TV, stage and sport.
Between the celestial harmonies of the Gloucester Cathedral Choir and majestic brass of the Band of the Welsh Guards, the likes of Stephen Fry, Benedict Cumberbatch, Freddie Fox and June Whitfield gave readings from the pulpit in St George’s Hanover Square.
In the audience sat some 600 of the property and construction industry’s movers and shakers, many of whom had made generous donations to projects to support London’s homeless and disadvantaged people.
The evening was crowned with a glittering champagne reception and charity auction at the Dorchester hotel, where Allsop auctioneer Duncan Moir (with a little help from celebrity friends) prompted some hot bidding for lots, including a shirt worn by Daniel Craig in Skyfall and a drink with Dame Judi Dench, president of The Story of Christmas. The event raised more than £340,000.
Marc Corbett-Weaver, The Story of Christmas’s artistic director & CEO said: “We are extremely grateful to the many donors who have given immensely generously and to the musicians and performers who have made our events this year so very special.”
To make a donation to the Story of Christmas go to www.socappeal.com
rebecca.kent@estatesgazette.com
