FEATHER boas, high kicks and cocktails all played their part in a memorable night in Alveston that raised £2,700 for Cancer Research UK.
More than 40 people took part in the Broadway, Burlesque & Bellinis event at St Helen’s Primary School, which the organiser said was “transformed into a glittering venue of sparkle, sass, and generosity” in May.
Fitness instructor Sam Hutchinson organised the event, which started with a Broadway-style dance fitness class, followed by a burlesque routine led by professional Arabella Sparkles.
The event finished with a ‘glitz and giggles’ hour with Bellinis, nibbles, a burlesque performance and raffle.
The event was supported by volunteers from Thornbury Cancer Research Committee, who ran the bar and sold raffle tickets.
More money was raised through an online auction with a wide variety of donations from local businesses.
Sam said: “This year completely blew all expectations out of the water.
“The atmosphere was amazing – joyful, inclusive, and full of generosity. Cancer Research UK does such vital work, and it was powerful to see our community come together to support them in such a fun, meaningful way.”
The total raised beat all previous records for Sam’s annual fundraiser and was more than 50% higher than the previous high of £1,752.
The money is being donated in memory of Trev Sargent, a former Thornbury rugby player who died in April aged 46, just five weeks after being diagnosed with small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma, a rare and highly aggressive form of cancer.
Sam said: “Honouring Trev’s memory added a deeper significance to the event, reminding everyone of the very personal reasons behind supporting Cancer Research UK’s life-saving work.
“Thanks to everyone involved – those who danced, donated, performed, volunteered, auctioned, and attended.
“It takes a village to pull something like this off, and ours is one full of heart.”