Our Chairman’s Reception last night was a wonderful celebration of Variety’s work in our 75th year. Thank you so much to our Chairman Prof Jonathan Shalit OBE, and Co-Chair Tushar Prabhu for hosting the evening.

Jonathan was proud to honour the Variety Golf Society that celebrates its 60th Anniversary this year. Variety Golf has raised over £50m for Variety, funding 1850 Variety Sunshine Coaches to date. Thank you so much Variety Golf!

We were proud also to honour Gloria Hunniford OBE with a Variety Club Showbusiness Award for Outstanding Contribution to Broadcasting and Philanthropy, which was presented by her dear friend, the legendary Oscar, Tony Award, Golden Global Award and Laurence Olivier Award winning lyricist Don Black CBE. We can’t thank Gloria enough for all that she has done for Variety and our children over the years.

We were truly inspired by 13 year old George and his mother Lucy who came to tell us how Variety’s support with new wheelchairs has transformed George’s life. After George spoke so eloquently it was announced that Dr Michael Josephson MBE has graciously agreed to return as our Honorary Chief Barker for the second year running. Michael has raised and donated over £2.5m to Variety and is an incredible advocate and fundraiser for children and young people. Thank you so much Michael!

Before the evening ended, the chair of our Scottish Committee, Gordon Smith took to the stage to tell us about the impact of Variety Scotland, the children’s charity‘s work in Scotland. Thank you Gordon and all the Variety Scotland committee for your great support. 

Lastly, but not least we want to warmly thank Andrew Carnie and the Soho House & Co group for their generous donation of 180 House’s magnificent top floor along with all the food and drink for the evening. It set the scene for a brilliant evening celebrating Variety’s impact on disabled and disadvantaged children.