Charities unite to raise over £27,000 at sparkling Ladies’ Lunch
SUCCESS: The 2025 Ladies’ Lunch
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
The joint Sailors’ Children’s Society and HEY Smile Foundation Ladies’ Lunch has been hailed a resounding success after raising £27,300 to support vital community projects and families in crisis.
The event was held at The DoubleTree by Hilton Hull on the eve of International Women’s Day, and featured a star-studded line-up.
The afternoon was hosted by BBC presenter Gemma Dawson. Broadcaster and author Andrea McLean delivered an inspiring keynote speech, and Caroline Hawley from BBC’s Bargain Hunt led the charity auction, which was a huge success.
Natasha Barley, CEO of the Sailors’ Children’s Society, said: “This year’s Ladies’ Lunch has become a shining example of how two charities can come together to achieve something truly impactful.
“The funds raised will go directly to supporting families in crisis, helping them to rebuild their lives and secure brighter futures. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to this fantastic day.”
The event was made possible thanks to the support of sponsors, with Hugh Rice Jewellers as the main sponsor and Gosschalks, Prestige Recruitment, Hinks Insurance and The Golden Thread as associate sponsors, alongside contributions from local businesses who donated auction prizes.
Tessa Wray, head of partnerships at HEY Smile Foundation, said: “Ladies’ Lunch is quickly becoming one of the standout business events of the year, and it’s an honour to work alongside the Sailors’ Children’s Society to create such a memorable occasion.
“We are extremely grateful for the support received by so many incredible businesses and individuals who supported this year’s event. We simply cannot put on fundraising events like Ladies’ Lunch without the generosity of our wonderful business community.
“Their donations of time, resources, prizes and funds significantly reduced our costs and maximised our fundraising, which will enable us to support even more local projects, helping to make a real difference across our region.”