The event, which was once again sponsored by EMG Solicitors, raised almost £10,000 for next year’s Look Ahead in the North event, otherwise known as LAN.
After presenting their golden tickets, more than 300 sweet-toothed guests were treated with a spectacular evening of entertainment at Newcastle’s Discovery Museum, which for one evening only was transformed into Willy Wonka’s very own chocolate factory.
With menus were printed on edible paper, a pick-and-mix stand, and a gigantic chocolate fountain, guests were invited to return to their childhood – and most obliged!
The entertainment was equally impressive – and surprising, particularly when a quartet of Oompa Loompas serenading the audience with a song and dance routine.
Perhaps more conventionally, a Hot Chocolate tribute act then warmed up everyone for an evening on the dance floor before pop legend Marc Almond took to the stage to deliver a raft of his classic hits including Tainted Love.
Marc, who has sold over 30 million records worldwide
and continues his solo career with his most recent album The Velvet Trail, gave his time for free in aid of the charity.
“What a fantastic evening and effort from everyone involved,” said Headway’s Luke Griggs, who addressed guests at the beginning of the evening. “Characters from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory entertained our guests and the museum looked stunning.
“All the money raised will go towards next year’s LAN weekend at The Calvert Trust, an inclusive outdoor activity centre in Kielder, Northumberland, which gives people affected by brain injury an opportunity to come together for a weekend of fun.
“Huge thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this event happen, particularly EMG Solicitors for sponsoring and organising this spectacular and successful night.
“We’re also delighted that the firm has agreed to take on a Headway Challenge Baton in 2017, committing to raise money for Headway throughout the year. On the basis of this event, it’ll be exciting to see how they go about it!”
Emma Gaudern, Managing Director of EMG Solicitors, said: “I was delighted with the response to the WonderLAN Ball. It was a sold-out event, and everybody who came had a fantastic time in aid of a great cause.
“In particular, I cannot speak highly enough of Marc Almond, who gave his time so generously. He was a fantastic performer and happily appeared in a million 'selfies', making everyone who met him feel special.
“I would like to extend my thanks to everyone involved with the ball, from the organisers, through to the sponsors. The only problem is working out how we better it next year!”
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