4:01pm Thursday 2nd May 2013
By Tui Benjamin
A CABARET evening saw celebrities, politicians and the public alike making a song and dance for disabled young people in Bury — and raise around £3,000 into the bargain.
Disability charity Hurdles held its own evening of entertainment at Gigg Lane on Sunday after a Forever Bury FC fundraising match, putting the day’s total funds raised at approximately £6,500.
Coronation Street stars Catherine Tyldesley, Jennie McAlpine, John Michie, Ian Puleston-Davies and Mikey North were in attendance at the party with comedy provided by actor Steve Evets and music by Pete Martin and friends.
Hurdles chairman Geraldine Greene said: “We were absolutely thrilled and delighted when this opportunity came our way, and a wonderful night was had by all.
“The stars who made an appearance were wonderful — they mingled with guests, had photos taken, signed autographs and made a special effort with some of our disabled young people.
“The cabaret itself was absolutely out of this world and Ian and Mikey who ran the auction encouraged every last penny out of attendees — this alone raised £1,000.”
Geraldine said a frantic bidding war for a tour of the Coronation Street set led to the same prize being offered to both bidders if each matched the highest bid of £240.
“These celebrities have such a busy schedule and to give up what little free time they have shows such generosity of spirit,” she added.
Geraldine said Hurdles hopes to put some of the money towards improving their new allotments and said they are “incredibly grateful” to all concerned.
“Life can be tough for families living with disability but we know people are more than worth the effort and a little support and friendship can go a long way,” she said.
“Everyone from the community who attended on Sunday took us to their hearts and we are so pleased and appreciative they did.”
Geraldine thanked Hurdles patron and Coronation Street director Noreen Kershaw, who attained the celebrity guests, Bury FC for hostring the event, and Hurdles staff and families for all their hard work.
“One of the most amazing things about Hurdles is although all our parents are full-time carers, they always make the time to organise and support fundraising activities,” she said.
“Sometimes I wonder how they do it with such good spirit and good humour – it’s fantastic.”
Politicians in attendance on the evening included Bury South MP Ivan Lewis, Mayor of Bury Councillor Joan Grimshaw and Council Leader Mike Connolly.
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