In all nearly £100,000 was raised through a combination of auctions, entry, and special competitions, with the 400 in attendance at Franklin’s Gardens royally entertained by former Saints, England and British Lions star Martin Bayfield.
“It was a tremendous evening, and Leon would have really enjoyed himself,” said Paula Barwell, chair of the board of Trustees. “As you’d expect, Martin was a great host, and we were overwhelmed by the generosity of people with their donations and auction bids.
“The money raised will really help us to create memories for families who are battling cancer, and we will be eternally grateful to everyone who came to the dinner last night, and who helped to organise it.
“This is just the start of what will be a long journey. But it is a great start!”
The Leon Barwell Foundation’s focus is to help parents living day to day with cancer, providing them with financial support, and giving them opportunities to organise unique family events to create lasting memories with their loved ones.
This week’s dinner was the first of two showpiece occasions to be held by the charity in early 2015, the other being a special football match to be played in April at Sixfields Stadium.
Tickets for the Leon Barwell Foundation Trophy on Sunday, April 12th, can be purchased in person from the Cobblers and Saints ticket offices, the Royal and Derngate box office, and online at www.ntfc.co.uk or www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/buytickets. Advanced tickets are priced just £10 for adults and £4 for concessions, with carers and children aged seven and under admitted free of charge.
For further information on the Foundation, its work and how you can support it, please visit www.leonbarwellfoundation.org
