A gala evening in aid of the Animal Protection Agency and International Animal Rescue (IAR) took place at the elegant Old Market Theatre in Hove on Friday, 27th March 2009 and raised the fantastic sum of £13,405.
The fun began with champagne and canapés at the bar, followed by a sumptuous five-course gourmet meal. Each mouth-watering course had been chosen to highlight the exotic locations where much of the work of IAR and APA is carried out. The feast had been laid on by the evening's sponsors, Cordon Vert caterers "VegOut".
Entertainment was provided by Brighton's jungle stiltwalking band "The Top Bananas". The soulful sound of lounge jazz & blues ensemble "Gardenia" was joined by Ashley Slater of "Freak Power". Magician, Dave Croucher, presented close-up table magic.
There was also a raffle and an auction featuring some fabulous lots such as nights out at fine dining restaurants and hotels, the chance to win tickets to see some of the UK's top comedians and an exciting trip around the south coast in a Rigid Inflatable Boat. The star auction lot was a tailor-made trip to India for two - including a personal VIP tour of the Agra and Bannerghatta bear sanctuaries and then on to IAR's veterinary clinic and rescue centre in Goa
This Morning TV vet Scott Miller who attended the event said:
Countless animals have been saved from terrible suffering by the work of these two organisations - by hands on rescue and dedicated campaigns. I've seen this work first-hand. This was a fantastic way to combine support for the charities with enjoying a great night out!
APA Director Elaine Toland, with CEO of International Animal Rescue Alan Knight, and actress June Brown.
Actress June Brown (Dot Cotton in East Enders)
