Action Against Hunger held its 17th annual Fine Wine and Art Dinner on Saturday 4 November. With £460,000 raised on the night, the event has now surpassed £5 million raised since its inception 17 years ago.
The flagship gala, which was held at the prestigious 1 Lombard Street in London, was attended by 200 guests, who enjoyed four-course meals cooked by renowned Michelin-starred chefs Angela Hartnett, Robert Reid and Neil Borthwick, complemented by wine selections from Liberty Wines.
Hosted by Mariella Frostrup, the evening included live and silent auctions showcasing a range of eye-catching prizes, including a personal cooking day with Raymond Blanc and Angela Harnett, a kitchen table lunch at Mark Hix’s home, a tour of the Burgundy wineries with David Gleave, and a private carriage on the British Pullman for 16 guests. Funds raised over the course of the evening will go towards supporting Action Against Hunger’s work, providing vital aid to those in need.
“We’re delighted to have raised such a staggering sum for this year’s event, with £5 million raised overall since the Fine Wine and Art Dinner began 17 years ago,” said Jean-Michel Grand, Action Against Hunger UK’s Executive Director. “This incredible generosity from the attendees will support our programmes in 55 countries around the world, where we can predict, prevent and treat life-threatening hunger.”
Robin Hutson, founder of THE PIG Hotels, said, “‘We have been long term supporters of the amazing work undertaken by the Action Against Hunger team all over the world. There are so many charities needing support for their causes, but the simple and basic ambition to eradicate malnutrition feels appropriate for us to get behind in the hospitality sector.
“At The Pig and Limewood we are very proud of our association with Action Against Hunger and pleased to be able to assist them. This event has gathered fantastic momentum since food writer Bill Knott and I started it all those years ago. It has become the biggest single fundraising event for the charity in the UK.”
Hunger rates are rising throughout the world with 49 million people in 43 countries across the globe at risk of falling into famine or a severe hunger crisis.
