The stars were out in force for La Dolce Vita Christmas Ball, a glittering fundraising event which took place on 12th December at Battersea Evolution, London.
The beneficiary charity for this year’s event was DebRA, the national charity which supports individuals and families affected by the genetic skin blistering condition Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) and the evening was presented by DebRA President, Michael Portillo.
Sponsored by Ascari, Von Essen Hotels, Crazy Bear Group, Belvedere Vodka, Radical, Broad Gallery, Players One, London Launch and Quintessentially, La Dolce Vita has become renowned for hosting celeb-packed parties at some of the world's most prestigious venues, and its latest gala offering didn't disappoint.
Among those in attendance alongside Michael Portillo were Princess Tamara Czartoryski-Bourbon, Lady Victoria Hervey, Anthea Turner, Kanya King, Eddie Jordan, Keith Wood, Paul Sackey, Peter Stringfellow, Liam Cunningham, Emma Noble, Ed Moses, Scott Henshall, Jason Hunt, John Salako, Nicola Bedingfield, Ross Kemp, Tiff Needell and John Hannah.
Following a champagne reception, guests were wined and dined to the sounds of operatic sensations Amici Forever, the award-winning Jamelia and music legend Billy Ocean with surprise performances from Eddie Jordan’s band and Kid Creole and the Coconuts.
Guests were given the chance to bid for a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences at the 'Money Can't Buy' auction in aid of DebRA. Lots under the hammer included two Radical SR3 race cars, a one-off hand-made Phantom 2 motorcycle, a flight in a two-man Spitfire IX and a original Pablo Picasso etching. Running concurrently alongside a silent auction, the sale attracted bids totalling £310,000.
Michael Portillo, President of DebRA, said: “We thank La Dolce Vita for supporting DebRA at this year’s Christmas Ball. The charity provides an expert team of nurses and social care staff to work directly with families affected by EB and also commissions world-leading research into the condition with the aim of finding effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for EB. Because DebRA receives no government funding, DebRA relies on the generosity of the public to carry out its vital work, improving lives and giving hope.
“The evening was a huge success and the money raised will help ensure DebRA continues to carry out its vital work, improving lives and giving hope to individuals and families affected by this devastating skin condition.”
For more information on DebRA and to view a short video clip showing the reality of living with EB please visit www.debra.org.uk.
