Sixth annual Arora Ball raises £1.25million

Famous faces attend glamorous black-tie fundraiser to raise vital funds for three charitable causes

The red carpet was rolled out for guests and celebrity supporters at a glamorous black-tie event raising money for three worthy causes, including Thames Hospice. The sixth annual Arora Ball hosted by actress, Laila Rouass and comedian, Rory Bremner, raised an incredible £1.25 million for its three chosen beneficiaries: Thames Hospice, British Heart Foundation (BHF) and Diabetes UK (DUK).

Held at the renowned InterContinental London at the O2, on Saturday 26 November, the glitzy event welcomed Claire Sweeney, Gillian Joesph, rock legend and Diabetes UK ambassador Mike Rutherford. As well as Thames Hospice supporters The Right Honorable Theresa May, Lord David Brownlow and Hospice Ambassador Anita Dobson, alongside BHF ambassador’s Olivia Arben, the Mac twins – Alana and Lisa Macfarlane, who provided the tunes for guests to dance the night away.

The evening began with a champagne reception, followed by a welcome speech from Sunita Arora. Guests were then treated to an evening of dazzling entertainment and delicious food, along with a touching tribute to the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by the Grenadier Guards.

Guests took part in an array of fundraising activities in support of the three charities, including a Heart Wall raffle with luxury prizes up for grabs, and a live auction with British international auctioneer, Charles Hanson.

The exclusive auction also included a variety of VIP experiences and celebrity lots such as a signed jacket from Sir Cliff Richard and opportunities to attend Ascot racecourse in style. As well as incredible money can’t buy prizes including: two tickets to the Grammy Awards in LA and a private snooker masterclass with seven times World Champion Ronnie O’Sullivan.

The funds will be split between Thames Hospice, The British Heart Foundation (BHF) and Diabetes UK (DUK) to help make a difference to millions of people and bring hope and comfort to families who need it.

Sunita Arora, said: “Thank you to everyone for making the Arora Ball a night to remember. The Arora Group are delighted to be able to raise an incredible amount for three fantastic causes that we are passionate about.

“By supporting the vital work the British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK and Thames Hospice do at this year’s Arora Ball, we are creating a better world now and for future generations.”

Chris Aitken, Chair of Trustees at Thames Hospice, who attended the event, said: “It was an incredible honour to be part of this phenomenal evening. We are so thrilled and overwhelmed by the generosity of every single guest, without whom we simply would not be able to provide vital care to people with a life-limiting condition, and their families, now and long into the future.”