Gidleigh Park fundraiser brings in over £10,000

On Thursday 18th November a charity lunch, organized by prominent local businessman John Casson, took place in aid of South West adoption charity, Families for Children.

The lunch was held at Gidleigh Park Hotel which was recently voted number one in the Sunday Times and Harden Restaurant Guide and also Most Excellent Restaurant in the Conde Nast Johansens 2011 Annual Awards for Excellence.

Their high profile Executive Chef Michael Caines MBE, himself adopted, provided a delicious menu and Falklands war survivor Simon Weston gave an inspirational talk.

67 guests attended the event, sponsored by Brewin Dolphin and Private Cellar, in aid of South West adoption charity Families for Children, with just under £10,700 being raised. An auction took place during the lunch and guests were able to bid for items including lunch with actress Hayley Mills and a Gibson ‘Les Paul Junior’ guitar (the same model Keith Richards plays).

Ally Colton, Fundraising and Publicity Co-ordinator says “we are delighted that John Casson has chosen to support FFC. All the guests had a fabulous day and we would like to sincerely thank everyone who sponsored and attended this event, especially Simon Weston our brilliant speaker.

All the money raised will be used to support our adoptive families. Our adopters parent children who have come from abusive backgrounds and together we work to change these children’s lives, giving them the tools to become responsible, loving adults.”