Fundraisers at LOROS were overwhelmed when TV superstar Gloria Hunniford surprised them with a donation of £10,000 at the Hospice’s annual Ladies Luncheon.
The television presenter was hosting this year’s event, which took place on Wednesday 10th May and was attended by more than 600 women.
It came as a huge surprise to the LOROS Fundraising Team when Gloria announced she would like to donate £10,000 to the Hospice, after hearing about the work they do.
Speaking about the generous donation, LOROS Fundraising Events Lead Laura Betts said: “Gloria made the perfect host for this year’s Ladies Luncheon, she was absolutely fantastic and everybody loved hearing the tales from her life.
“We had absolutely no idea she was going to donate such a huge amount of money to us and we were all left speechless when she announced it.”
Gloria said that the donation would be made through The Caron Keating Foundation, a charity which was set up by Gloria in her daughter’s memory, after she died of cancer. “That money could help pay for 20 days’ worth of complementary therapy for our patients, their families and carers, which is amazing,” added Laura.
The event was a huge success, raising more than £15,000 for LOROS, which is the highest profit made from the Ladies Luncheon to date.
The event, which took place at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium is in its 32nd year and is attended by LOROS President, Lady Gretton.
Those attending enjoyed a three-course meal before indulging in a spot of retail therapy, with a range of handbags, gifts, home decorations, jewellery and accessories on offer to buy.
Lady Gretton said: “It was an amazing surprise and totally unexpected when Gloria announced she would be donating £10,000.
“What a generous donation, it’s just incredible.
“Gloria gave a fantastic talk, speaking about the highs and lows of her life, as well as talking about her daughter and how she coped as she battled cancer; it really was amazing to hear.
“Gloria was so approachable too.”
Lady Gretton said it was a ‘wonderful lunch’ with an ‘amazing turnout’.
“I think we should thank everyone who supported the event and not just those who attended but the sponsors too, who helped make the day possible.
“We raised an incredible amount and I would like to thank everyone who was involved.” Next year’s Ladies Luncheon host is yet to be announced. Find out more about this and any other LOROS events by visiting loros.co.uk/support-us
