Mark Pendlington DL, former High Sheriff of Suffolk, concluded his tenure last week with a remarkable achievement, raising over £75,000 through legacy fundraising projects. The culmination of the outstanding efforts of his events and fundraising team was marked by two events that were a first for Suffolk The High Sheriff of Suffolk’s Command Performance and Legacy Online Auction in association with Birketts LLP.
The High Sheriff of Suffolk’s Command Performance, hosted by national treasure and Strictly Come Dancing Star, Angela Rippon CBE, proved to be a resounding success, raising over £55,000 for both the High Sheriff’s Fund managed by the Suffolk Community Foundation and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds. This grand event on Wednesday 20th March at Theatre Royal featured captivating performances by renowned artists including Gary Avis MBE & Christina Arestis of The Royal Ballet Company, opera singer Christina Johnston, and Izo Fitzroy and the London Soul Sanctuary Gospel Choir, among others.
The Legacy Online Auction, which ran from 14th – 24th March, contributed nearly £20,000 to the total funds raised, with private donations in addition. With all 23 lots generously donated, and no selling fees incurred, every penny raised directly benefits the High Sheriff’s Fund managed by the Suffolk Community Foundation.
Reflecting on this achievement, Mark Pendlington DL, High Sheriff of Suffolk, expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am so deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we have received from across Suffolk and beyond. This amazing generosity allows us to shine a spotlight on what is so special about our county, but also on the many challenges we face. Practical help and support can be directed to those who need and deserve it the most as we continue to bring all generations and communities together to ensure no-one is left behind. The greatest privilege of being High Sheriff is to help bring people together from all walks of life for the good of Suffolk, and I was truly humbled and inspired by their selfless kindness and generosity.”
Melanie Craig, Chief Executive, Suffolk Community Foundation remarked, “Charities across Suffolk are working tirelessly to support people in our communities, facing so many challenges right now. The money raised will enable them to continue their vital work. We are incredibly grateful to the immense generosity of everyone involved and to the High Sheriff for his dedication to our cause.”
Jonathan Agar, Chief Executive of Birketts LLP, emphasised the firm’s commitment to the Suffolk community, stating, “We are proud to have sponsored The High Sheriff of Suffolk’s Legacy Auction and contributed to its success. Our firm is a long-standing supporter of the Suffolk Community Foundation and the vital work it does within our county to deliver funds to important charities and community groups.”
The success of these fundraising endeavours would not have been possible without the support of sponsors Birketts LLP, Abbeygate Wealth Management, Chassis Cab, SunEnviro, and SMART Modular Buildings, as well as the generosity of auction donors and bidders.
Individuals interested in learning more about the lots and the legacy can visit the dedicated website at www.highsheriffofsuffolklegacyauction.com.
Thank you to the auctioneers Lacy Scott & Knight and thesaleroom.com who have generously waived their commission fees for all lots sold in support of our Legacy projects.
Photo credit: Tom Soper Photography
Sponsors:
Headline Sponsor: Birketts LLP
Official Sponsors: Abbeygate Wealth Management, Chassis Cab, SMART Modular Buildings, SunEnviro
Official Partners: Adnams, Coastline, Lacy Scott & Knight, Maison Bleue, Milsom, Logic Design, Premier Printers, thesaleroom.com