London, December 6th, 2014 – Over 300 guests gathered on Saturday, December 6th, for The Ireland Fund of Great Britain’s Annual Winter Ball at The Landmark London hotel.
This year’s Winter Ball honoured two outstanding men for their contribution to Irish cultural life in Great Britain. Cillian Murphy was recognized for his contribution through the arts and Niall Quinn for his contribution through sport. Sky News reporter Dermot Murnaghan, was the MC for the evening and did a brilliant job interviewing both of the awardees about their work experiences as Irish men living in London, the work of The Ireland Funds and what’s next for them.
The Winter Ball was chaired by Padraig Brennan and Brian McGlennon and was supported by an outstanding event committee.
The Worldwide Ireland Funds President and CEO Kieran McLoughlin, captured the attention of the room as he kicked off the evening’s proceedings. A healthy mix of wit and substance reminded the audience that their presence at the Ball is vital to The Ireland Funds and the work they continue to do worldwide.
Representatives from the chosen charities on the night, Mind Yourself and The Aisling Project spoke movingly and passionately about the challenges their organisations face on a daily basis.This was followed by our auctioneer for the evening former Irish Rugby international Fergus Slattery inviting the audience to pledge donations to these worthy charities. With the formalities over, it was time for dancing to the sound of The Westside Syncopators. In true Irish style, the celebrations lasted well into the wee small hours.
