Following the success of last year’s event, the Lancaster London Hotel again hosted the Ball.
The black and white themed décor, highlighted by stunning balloon displays, provided a perfect backdrop for the evening’s celebrations on 4th March.
London President James Gallagher was pleased to welcome guests from kindred associations: SAIF National President Paul Allcock (with wife Alison), BIFD national Chairman Darren Carpenter (with Tracey Hodgson), CFSMA Immediate Past President Darryl Smith (with wife Lesley) and BIE Southern Chairman Janni Plato-Howley.
NAFD President Jeremy Field and his wife Victoria were on “home turf” at the LAFD Ball, Jeremy having served for some years on its Executive Committee.
The guests are pictured with James and Vice-President Matthew Barber and his wife Lucy.
Artist Darren Baker with his beautiful drawing
President James Gallagher (2nd right front row) and V-P Matthew Barber (2nd right back row) pictured with the “Chain Gang”
Following a delicious 4 course dinner, the glamourous party-goers joined a lively, and ultimately fairly competitive, auction for a framed drawing of a dancer by artist Darren Baker,
who was on hand to present both the picture and evidence of provenance. Funds raised from the sale benefitted the President’s nominated charity, St Clare’s Hospice.
LAFD were surprised and thrilled by Mr Baker’s generous donation of the beautiful picture. His work deservedly has attracted much critical acclaim, particularly his portrait of the Queen, unveiled in 2011.
The party continued in the usual lively London manner, as members filled the dance floor when showband “Mixed Feelings” took to the stage.
Toastmaster Neil Hunt ably oversaw proceedings, including a grand raffle draw with an array of superb prizes kindly donated by sponsors.
This year’s event was well supported by the very generous sponsorship of a number of suppliers and local members and we were pleased so many sponsors were able to join us at the party – THANK YOU all for contributing to a great evening.