Summer ball raises over £250,000 for children's charities

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A ball organised by Alderley Edge resident Michael Josephson MBE on Saturday, 30th June has been hailed a tremendous success.

The inaugural Michael Josephson MBE Summer Ball took place at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate and raised an incredible £256,900 for children's charities.

Over 450 guests were treated to a performances by the Liverpool Signing Choir and a finale performance from Lulu and her live band.

All money raised on the evening will go directly to Michael's three chosen charities Variety, the children's charity, the Seashell Trust and the Frost Foundation.

The evening was hosted by DJ Darren Proctor and star guests at the summer ball included Corrie favourite Debbie Rush, film star Warwick Davis, lifestyle gurus Nik and Eva Speakman and Hollyoaks star Nicole Barber-Lane.

The money was raised through a grand charity auction, with a Bee Proud sculpture by Emma Rodgers raising £40,000 as well as a bespoke artwork by Mackenzie Thorpe inspired by Michael's story.

Michael, 42, suffered horrific abuse in his childhood, which resulted in him trying to end his life by jumping off a bridge at the age of 20. He miraculously survived and went on to set up his successful business Stocks 2015 Ltd and was inspired to raise millions for charity to try to help other vulnerable children.

Previously in his role as the Chairman of the Childline Ball for 15 years, Michael raised £3.4 million for Childline and is now focusing on helping other charities achieve their goal of fundraising.

Lyn Staunton of Variety the children's charity said "Variety, the Children's Charity would like to express our sincere thanks to Michael Josephson MBE a patron of Variety, for his dedication and outstanding support of sick disabled and disadvantaged children and their families here in the Northwest to have a much brighter future. The funds raised from the Summer Ball will go a long way in doing just that."

Dominic Tinner of Seashell Trust said "Seashell Trust has been deeply moved by the generosity of so many kind people at the Michael Josephson MBE Summer Ball. The children and young people our three charities are supporting, get one chance at childhood. The huge amount of money raised really will help to give them the same opportunities other children often take for granted."

Wendy Veevers of The Frost Foundation added "The Frost Foundation is deeply honoured to have been chosen, along with two other amazing charities, to be recipients from the inaugural Michael Josephson MBE Summer Ball. Due to the support & generosity of Michael and his guests, the money raised will make a significant difference to many children living with disabilities or in poverty in the North West region. Thank you."