The art of raising money
Steven Dalton is a volunteer for The Art Fair, in aid of East Cheshire Hospice, which will be held in Macclesfield Town Hall between September 17 and 25. Name: Steven Dalton. Where do you live?: I live in Prestbury but work from Booth’s Hall in Knutsford, where my interior design business is based. I’m about to move to Liverpool with my partner Michael and our miniature dachshund, Bertie, but I’ll continue to commute to the office as most of my clients live in and around Cheshire and I’d miss it terribly. What organisation do you volunteer for?: The Art Fair, which raises money for East Cheshire Hospice. How long have you done this for?: I’ve only been involved for a year but I’ve really enjoyed getting to know all the other volunteers and getting stuck in. I had no idea how much work went on behind the scenes, organising an art exhibition of this size and calibre. What does it involve?: As vice chair I sit in on quite a few meetings and get my hands dirty with quite a few different roles. I’ve helped with some of the marketing – banners, leaflets that kind of thing – and also the website. It’s been nice being able to put my design skills to good use. I’ve also worked closely with Fio, our chair, helping to co-ordinate things at Macclesfield Town Hall, where the exhibition takes place. What do you enjoy most about doing this?: I love the flexibility of being self-employed as it allows me the time to do charity work, which I find very satisfying. I think it’s really important to give something back and East Cheshire Hospice plays such a huge and important role in our community, I’m just glad I can help to raise funds. Anyone who knows me knows I love to meet new people, and I’ve certainly made some great new friends volunteering with the Art Fair. What’s the best thing about Macclesfield?: Macclesfield for me is a hidden gem. There are so many places to visit and things to do. From the little side streets, to quirky, vintage shops to the Treacle Market. Macclesfield is an all-rounder – there really is something for everyone. Why should people visit Art Fair 2016 at Macclesfield Town Hall?: As a community event, the Art Fair welcomes everyone. You’ll find original paintings, limited edition prints, handmade pottery and jewellery, silk scarves, glassware, wood turned pieces and sculpture too. Everything is for sale, with more than 35 per cent of the proceeds going straight to East Cheshire Hospice. There’s a wall of fame auction as well, where local celebrities and well-known names like Sir Alex Ferguson, Noddy Holder and Bill Roache have created postcards to raise extra money for the hospice. We have our own pop-up café, serving tasty home-made cakes and hot and cold drinks, so why not drop in and enjoy a coffee while you browse? We’re open 10.30am until 5pm every weekday, and on Treacle Sunday too. How can people find out more about what you do?: Find out lots more by visiting our website at www.theartofcaring.org. uk. We’d love to see you there – and remember, every piece of artwork sold means more money raised for the wonderful East Cheshire Hospice.