The Sussex Business Awards took place at The Grand in Brighton last week and raised more than £11,500 for Rockinghorse.
The prestigious black-tie event, organised by Platinum Media Group and in it’s 35th year, recognises the achievements and resilience of the county’s business community. Comedian Mark Watson hosted the ceremony which brought together some of the most successful companies – and their leaders – in Sussex.
More than 500 guests enjoyed a fabulous evening with a delicious three-course meal before the awards were announced. Maarten Hoffmann, Managing Director of Platinum Media Group welcomed everyone to the evening and then Chief Executive of Rockinghorse, Donna Holland, spoke to the room, sharing with guests all the work the charity does during the Christmas season to support children and their families in hospital and to thank everyone in the room for supporting the charity.
Guests were invited to enter a raffle to have the chance to win some incredible prizes including a unique, bespoke suit made for the winner by Gresham Blake, the Brighton celebrity tailor, and an amazing tech bundle which included a Sony PlayStation and Bluetooth headphones, a Rathfinny wine tour experience, a Spa Breaks voucher and The Grand also gave a meal in their Cyan restaurant and an overnight stay, all of which had been generously donated so every penny of the money raised on the night came straight to Rockinghorse.
Gavin Willis was at the awards with members of his Search Seven team after being shortlisted for the Creative Industries award at the event. He said, ‘I’m really excited to be here and to be shortlisted for this award. We have been coming to the awards for six years and whether we are shortlisted or not, I like to come along as it’s a great community event.’
‘I’m also so pleased that Rockinghorse have been chosen as the event’s charity partner once again. They are a charity that’s close to my heart and it’s great that everyone who is attending can learn more about the work they do and support them to continue their work.’
Donna added: “This was such an amazing evening and to raise more than £11,500 for the charity is absolutely phenomenal. An event like this is also such a wonderful opportunity to meet so many supporters of Rockinghorse who are keen to offer their help, share stories of their children being supported, or who want to get involved in our projects and campaigns.
“Thanks so much to everyone who bought raffle tickets and of course to Maarten, Fiona, Zaneta and Lesley for delivering such a memorable and successful evening. We’re really looking forward to working with everyone at Platinum Media Group next year.”
And finally, thank you to everyone who supported Rockinghorse Children’s Charity during the evening with so many incredibly generous donations.