A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
As well as being a famous and accomplished actress, Joanna is a keen humanitarian, a generous philanthropist (making a much appreciated donation to the charity), and one of the most charming people that I’ve ever met. I even discovered that we had something in common: we’re both workaholics and believe in staying busy – there’s no time for sitting in front of the TV, unless the Hollyoaks omnibus is about to start.
One of the highlights of the evening was the always dynamic media personality Nicky Campbell’s interview with Joanna. Each table was invited to contribute a couple of questions, and somebody asked if she could still do the signature high-kick that made her character Purdy, in the New Avengers, an international sensation. ‘Yes, but not in this dress!’ she replied, before challenging him to come on stage and attempt it; it didn’t have the same effect.
Although the evening was very enjoyable it was also an emotional event. A short film was shown to emphasise the impact that quality care can have on people’s lives - including the moving story of a man who had been living alone for the past 30 years barely able to cope before the move into a Manchester Federation care-home gave him a new lease of life.
The final speech was made by a girl who worked for my old company, Link Up recruitment, who lost her sight after developing a brain tumour. The girl talked about never having seen a photograph of her wedding and the pain of not being able to see her child, but the charity had supported her at every step and made things that little bit easier – I’m proud that thebigword is sponsoring such great work.
In other slightly less star-studded news, we are currently in the process of tendering for some very important contracts in the next week, and I hope to be able to give you some more details next week; don’t miss it...
Have a great weekend,
Larry
