Stars Shine At the Return of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Charity Ball

Published on: 13 Nov, 2021
Updated on: 16 Nov, 2021

Dame Joan Collins with Chair of Trustees Andrew Coppel, receiving an award of recognition for her support to Shooting Star Children’s Hospices at the Ball – Photo: Simon Dopson

A host of stars including Dame Joan Collins, Tony Hadley MBE, Brenda Blethyn, Leigh Francis and Julian Clary came together yesterday November 12 to show their support for the Shooting Star Ball, in aid of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices – a leading children’s hospice charity which originated in Guildford.

Ben Shephard hosted the ball – Photo: Simon Dopson

The charity supports babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families, across London and Surrey.

The annual event, which took place at the Royal Lancaster, made a welcome return after a hiatus in 2020 due to the pandemic. The evening was hosted by Ben Shephard, with guest performers and the charity’s Vice-President Tony Hadley, performing with his band.

Laurence and Jackie Llewlyn-Bowen, Patrons of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices – Photo: Simon Dopson

400 guests including the charity’s patron’s Laurence and Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen enjoyed a three-course winter warmer dinner, before taking part in a money-can’t-buy auction hosted by Bargain Hunt’s Charlie Ross. Auction prizes included an exclusive dine ‘in style’ with Dame Joan Collins, vice-president of the charity, and a round of golf with patron and iconic actor Philip Glenister and award-winning writer of Line of Duty, Jed Mercurio.

Simon Cowell, vice-president of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, said: “The annual Shooting Star Ball is a very important event. I am thrilled we are able to bring it back this year after having to cancel it last year because of the pandemic. This is a night to remind people what the team at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices do to support the children and their families. It is quite amazing.”

More stars at the Shooting Star ball. From left to right: Leigh Francis, Julian Clary, Brenda Blethyn, and Tony Hadlee – Photos: Simon Dopson

Now in its 16th year, the Shooting Star Ball has raised more than £3 million for the children’s hospice charity since its launch in 2004.

Karen Sugarman MBE, executive vice-president of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices said: “The Shooting Star Ball is always a wonderful evening and is extra special this year to be able to come together after such a challenging time for us all. We are so thrilled and overwhelmed with the generosity from our incredible Vice-President’s, Patrons, and guests. Without whom, we simply would not be able to provide the vital care and support to children and families facing unimaginable circumstances.”

Paul Farthing, chief executive of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices said, “It was an extraordinary evening and I’d like to thank the Royal Lancaster for hosting, and all those involved for making such a wonderful event happen. The last 18 months have been a challenging time for everyone, so it’s been great to come together at The Shooting Star Ball with so many special people, celebrate the work we do and as importantly, raise the funds we need to help support families and children with life-limiting conditions.”