Rays of Sunshine marks 21st anniversary with star-studded gala dinner raising close to £1 million to grant more magical wishes for seriously and terminally ill children

Rays of Sunshine is delighted to announce its annual gala dinner raised close to £1 million to help grant more magical wishes for seriously ill children in the UK.  

The event took place at the world-renowned Claridge’s hotel in Mayfair, and was sponsored by The Fragrance Shop – the charity’s longest-standing corporate partner, who were also celebrating their 30th anniversary. More than 180 supporters came together to celebrate the magic Rays of Sunshine has made happen during its 21 years.  

TV personality Mark Wright hosted the night’s festivities, which included speeches from Stephen Allan, Rays of Sunshine’s co-founder and chairman, The Fragrance Shop founder and CEO, Sanjay Vadera, Dr Warren Hyer, the charity’s medical advisor, and trustee Jane Sharpe.  

Attendees were also treated to two stellar performances. Lewis Fuller, Britain’s Got Talent finalist and the world’s only singing illusionist took to the stage first to kick off the magical evening. Lewis has a long history with Rays of Sunshine, having received a wish himself  in 2009. Olly Murs, a Rays of Sunshine ambassador of more than a decade, closed the evening with a set filled with a selection of his hit songs, including Trouble Maker.  

The night also featured an exclusive diamond raffle, where one lucky guest won a pair of gorgeous Graff diamond earrings, and an auction with several special lots.  

Sanjay Vadera, CEO of the Fragrance Shop, was presented with a recognition award to honour his long-standing support, which has seen more than £1.1 million donated to Rays of Sunshine. The award was presented by Sanna, 19, from Rochdale, who had her wish granted to meet Olly Murs earlier this year at The Fragrance Shop HQ in Manchester. This was the charity’s 9,000th wish. 

Mark Wright, who hosted the gala for Rays of Sunshine, said: “Seeing the generosity and kindness of everyone on this special night was truly inspiring.  

“Rays of Sunshine does incredible work to bring joy to children and families facing unimaginable challenges, and it’s a privilege to be part of that. Together, with the money raised we’ve made sure that more seriously ill children will have their greatest wish granted.” 

Olly Murs, Rays of Sunshine ambassador, said: “It’s been such an honour to perform tonight and to continue supporting Rays of Sunshine, a charity that’s so close to my heart. I’ve seen first hand the incredible joy and hope this charity brings to children and families through every wish it grants.”  

Dan Assor, CEO of Rays of Sunshine, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable evening, so that we can carry on brightening the lives of seriously ill children when they need it most.  

“Thank you to The Fragrance Shop for their sponsorship and continued support, without them tonight wouldn’t have been possible, and to everyone who gave so generously.” 

Sanjay Vadera MBE, CEO and founder of The Fragrance Shop, said: “Over the years, our collaboration has made a profound impact, brightening the lives of seriously ill children across the UK. Thanks to the generosity of those in the room with us, we were also able to embrace and ensure the bright future ahead by raising £1.1m so far and an incredible total tonight. 

“The Charity Gala was the perfect way to celebrate 3 significant milestones: the exceptional 12 year partnership in addition to The Fragrance Shop’s 30th birthday, Rays of Sunshine’s 21st birthday.” 

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