An Evening with Suggs and Friends in aid of Pancreatic Cancer UK at the Emirates Stadium

18^th March 2016

18 March 2016

Yesterday evening, Arsenal’s home turf played host to a different type of event. The football club’s Woolwich Suite witnessed the fun and frolics of An Evening with Suggs and Friends. The Madness frontman, as an ambassador for Pancreatic Cancer UK, held the sparkling fundraising party alongside other talented musicians, with an array of guests who were waiting to empty their wallets in order to add to the £330,000 that had been raised for the charity following the success of the last three events.

With around 450 people in attendance there was plenty of mingling to be done at the initial champagne reception. With glasses topped up, guests were then led from the bar to the main event room. As everyone relaxed into the venue, it was not long before the sumptuous three-course meal was delivered to the tables, punctuated by introductions from Suggs himself and Pancreatic Cancer UK’s community engagement manager, Debbie Wells. As both individuals relayed their stories of loved ones who had tragically passed away from the disease, the merry audience gave heartfelt applause for each emotional speech.

With dessert done and dusted, the charity auction commenced with incredible vigour. Exciting prizes were snatched up from all corners of the room for thousands of pounds, reflecting the generosity of an audience who were determined to beat the previous year’s fundraising total.

And finally, with artworks won and holidays auctioned off, it was time for the long-awaited musical performances. Anne-Marie, Jools Holland, Chris Difford of Squeeze and (of course) Madness all took to the stage and entertained the evening’s donors with enthusiastic energy. Anne-Marie’s soothing voice and rhythmic undertones peaked the dance floor’s interest and her stunning performance proved that she is an artist to watch.

The remaining the bands kept up the high spirits in what was a perfect conclusion to a successful evening. This is a charity event to keep on the radar. Expect the fifth edition of An Evening with Suggs and Friends in 2017 to be as equally upbeat and fruitful.

Laura Ewing

For further information Suggs and future events visit here.

For further information about Pancreatic Cancer UK visit here.