Events> Ball 2005

The Robyn Brooks Appeal Annual Ball took place at Rochdale Town Hall on Saturday, 1 October.

ROBYN Brooks Appeal manager Brian Brooks was cut off in his prime while making a speech at the annual ball. People attending the ball had started their meals when Mr Brooks got up to say a few words about the appeal and thank everyone for coming.

As he began pop star Liz McClarnon’s manager Kate Radovic rang him to say the Atomic Kitten singer had arrived at the Town Hall. Mr Brooks’ voice was interrupted by the sound of his Peter Kay ringtone shouting ‘It’s spitting! Everybody in!’.

He explained: “Liz had arrived but couldn’t see her name on the table plan so she called her manager Kate Radovic who was in Ireland who was then ringing me to say where Liz was.”

“Unfortunately I couldn’t hear Kate so had to ring me back a couple of times. Then Dorothy Johnstone from the town hall went to see if anyone was downstairs and saw Liz, her mum and her auntie.”

The night was a big success with everyone enjoying themselves and helping to raise several thousand pounds for the charity, which aims to help children with cancer.

Top tribute band the Ambassadors Tribute to Legends provided the entertainment and group member Steve Keen was guest auctioneer.

His brother Stuart Keen, director of entertainment agency ACT-E-VATE, provided some of the auction items. But sadly one of them that wasnt put up to bidding, a signed photograph of Zinedine Zidane, went missing during the evening. They have asked for whoever has the item to ring ACT-E-VATE on 356060.

Youngsters from Samba Dance and Fitness performed a wide range of dance routines ranging from disco to ballroom. International magician and illusionist Bobby Martell kept people entertained at their tables.

Jay Peters was DJ for the evening and helped compere John Broadbent keep the evening running smoothly.

As well as Liz McClarnon other guests during the evening included 2004 Miss England finalist Laura Shields and Nik and Eva Speakman, who are currently working on their new television show.

Robyn’s parents Garry and Karen Brooks were also there.

There were some terrific auction prizes on offer including a boxing glove and poster signed by Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan.

There was also a 1970 Brazil football team shirt signed by Pele in a frame with a photograph of the famous save made by Gordon Banks which was bought by John Swindon of Rochdale jeweller JD Alexander.

Rochdale car and motorcycle dealership Robinsons sponsored the event along with bedding firm Early’s of Witney. Other local firms who helped with the event by providing raffle and auction prizes included J D Alexander, Hair by Jamilla Paul, Heavenley (x) Bodies, Arien Refirgeration, NRG Telcom and Sandifords Gallery.

Mr Brooks said: “We’re very grateful to everyone for coming and to all those who gave auction and raffle prizes and helped make it such a great success. The money raised will go towards helping children with cancer.”