Stars come out for Norwood on a £3 million digital night
AN ONLINE audience of more than 5,000 watched Norwood’s “annual dinner reimagined” on Monday night — five times the number who would normally have attended the physical event. And the charity reports that proceeds are on course to match the £3 million raised by last year’s dinner.
It was a star-studded event, hosted by Jonathan Ross, who got involved after seeing Talya, the eldest daughter of Norwood CEO Dr Beverley Jacobson, cycling past his house on a red tricycle during the first lockdown singing at the top of her voice.
Talya has mild quadriplegic cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and a severe visual impairment and the broadcaster was impressed by her spirit.
“What a wonderful night,” he told supporters. “Norwood is an amazing charity that makes such a difference to so many people and... crucially, their families too.
“I was so moved by the sight of a young woman cycling past my house on a trike singing that I’ve been doing all I can to support this charity and I am honoured to have presented its annual dinner reimagined.”
Singer Craig David was also well aware of Norwood’s work, having encountered a group of the charity’s supporters and service users on a cycling fundraiser in South Africa, where he was on tour. He went on to play an “Up Close and Personal” show in London to raise funds for Norwood.
There were also contributions to the virtual dinner from Lulu, Dame Darcey Bussell, Lewis Capaldi, Natasha Kaplinsky, Robert Rinder, Katie Piper and Strictly’s Aljaz and Janette.
Michael McIntyre donned comic goggles to “look into the souls of Norwood supporters to make sure they donate”.
The virtual dinner also marked Norwood’s 225th anniversary and on the eve of the event, its patron, The Queen, sent a message extending “warm good wishes to Norwood’s beneficiaries, staff and all those associated with the charity.
“As your patron, I am well aware of Norwood’s long association with the Royal Family and of your continued important work in providing support and care to individuals and families experiencing difficult times.
“I wish you all an enjoyable and memorable virtual dinner event this evening as you celebrate this significant milestone in the history of Norwood.”
Michael McIntyre and Craig David backing Norwood and Jonathan Ross with Talya Jacobson
Praising the efforts of those involved in the organisation of the event, dinner committee chair Orly Wolfson said it had “exceeded all expectations. And it looks as if we will match last year’s fundraising total, which is truly incredible for a virtual dinner.”
Dr Jacobson added that in a challenging year, “we had to think more innovatively about how we could fundraise online to make our services sustainable in such tough economic times.
“We are incredibly proud of our achievement, which ensures that we stand out in a crowded marketplace while demonstrating what can be achieved through belief, passion and commitment.”