Show to top the lot from Denise
ROLL up, roll up! Denise Welch was the sequinfestooned ringmaster as she hosted her Circus of Dreams ball for star guests in Manchester. And The Principal Hotel’s grand ballroom became a colourful big top to play host to the spectacular circus-themed celebrations on Saturday night.
Former Coronation Street and Waterloo Road star Denise was celebrating the 17th year of her fundraising ball in aid of Rochdale’s Gem Appeal charity which fundraises to help research into genetic disorders.
True to form, Denise made a spectacular grand entrance to the event, striding into the big top alongside a troupe of circus performers, acrobats and firebreathers, before fireworks burst into life as she headed on to the stage.
Denise and her artist husband Lincoln Townley were joined by a host of her co-stars past and present, including former Coronation Street stars Shobna Gulati, Sherrie Hewson and Angie Lonsdale.
Shobna wore a circus-print cocktail dress to fit with the theme, and played along with one of the circus performers dressed as a wind-up ballerina for our photos!
TV presenter Kate Thornton cut a glamorous figure in a full length sparkling gown, alongside actress Julie Graham.
Compere Jenny Powell was also in striking form as she took to the circus ring – donning a red top hat and gloves as she introduced the night.
Jenny was swishing a black caped skirt on top of her stylish black and lace jumpsuit as she was joined at the ball by her handsome fiance Martin.
And there were huge celebrations on the night when it was announced that the fundraising at Denise’s ball had helped the Gem Appeal to reach the impressive £3million milestone.
The charity was set up by inspirational mum Karen Johnson, to help fund research into the rare genetic disorders her sons Simon and Mike were dying from.
Sadly, Karen’s sons both died when they reached the age of 12, but trials of a treatment of enzyme replacement therapy have now become available to others with promising results, and Karen continues to tirelessly fundraise to help other families.
The event included live performances from former X Factor star Misha B wearing a dazzling red feathered dress, as well as talented young singer Temiah DeansWelch – and the spectacular theming was created by the team at Entertainment Today events.