The annual Legends of Industry event, at the Hilton Hotel, Deansgate, Manchester, honoured and celebrated those who have achieved outstanding success in their chosen fields of business and industry whilst raising crucial funds for Variety, the Children’s Charity in the Northwest to support disabled and disadvantaged children and young people.

Joint Headline Sponsors Michael Josephson MBE Stocks 2015 and the Geddes-Wood Family Trust, along with sponsors 4Syte, Close Brothers Invoice, Davenham Asset Finance, Grant Thornton, Kroll Advisory, e-capital, the Russell Partnership, Wemix Stefans Jewellers, Aimee Willow Connex ,and Bibby Financial all agreed it was a spectacular event, with well over £120,000 raised on the night.

2024 Award winners included:

  • Nadiya Hussain MBE (culinary Arts)
  • Jane McDonald (Entertainment)
  • Ricky Tomlinson (Dramatic Arts )
  • Les Dennis (Comedy)
  • Mark Labbett (professional Quizzer)
  • Shakin Stevens ( Music Industry )
  • James Whale MBE (Broadcasting)
  • Richard Whitehead MBE (Athletics)
  • Julie Perry (Hospitality Events)
  • Kelly Brown (Local Legend)

Back by popular demand the amazing children of “Shooting Stars” performed for over 450 guests showing that children with disabilities performing wonderful dance routines. A young Variety Ambassador Dante Marvin went on stage to thank everyone who supported in 2023 children in wheelchairs like himself.

Entertainment followed the Awards ceremony with international show band REMIX, Shooting Stars and Kelly Bond.

Lyn Staunton, Development Director of Variety, the Children’s Charity, commented:

We are always humbled by the outstanding achievements of each recipient of our Legends of Industry Awards, who have all excelled themselves in their chosen fields.
The Legends of Industry Awards are sold out months in advance because it is known as such a great event in the calendar.
The event raises funds to provide positive experiences for disabled and disadvantaged children and young people. Variety provides practical help, including Variety Sunshine Coaches, Variety wheelchairs, and specialist equipment through its grant programmes, in addition to creating memorable childhood experiences through Variety Great Days Out.