Littleborough family’s charity ball raises a huge £35,000 for cancer

A charity event organised by a Littleborough family has raised an astonishing £35,000 in support of two cancer charities, The Teenage Cancer Trust and The Christie Teenage and Young Adult Service.

The event, called Hamish’s MARVELous Night Out, took place on 28 September at The Edwardian in Manchester. The night, which combined a glamorous setting with a touch of film and football fun, generated the impressive sum through ticket sales, a raffle, donations, and an auction offering unique, money-can’t-buy prizes.
 

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Hamish Graham, who grew up in Littleborough, and his mother Sarah Graham, organised the event as a way to give back to the charities that supported them through his cancer journey. Hamish was first diagnosed with a rare brain tumour at the age of seven, and later, at 24, battled leukaemia. Both charities played a pivotal role in his treatment and recovery.

For guests, the evening was packed with entertainment, including a live performance by singer Camilla Connolly, a set by the GMP Band, singing waiters, and a DJ.

The night’s theme celebrated two of Hamish’s favourite things; films and football, with some guests opting for black-tie attire, while others dressed as iconic movie characters.

Among the attendees were the medical staff who cared for Hamish throughout his cancer battles, as well as stars from Coronation Street and Gogglebox. Although some celebrities, like Peter Andre and Rob Brydon, couldn’t attend in person, they sent heartfelt video messages of support, which were displayed on screens throughout the venue.

Reflecting on the success of the night, Sarah Graham said: “We’re blown away by the amount we’ve managed to raise and are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported Hamish’s MARVELous Night Out, either by providing their services free of charge, or attending and taking part in the auction.
 

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"The fundraising total is a testament to what can happen when people rally together to support causes like these.”

She added: “The Teenage Cancer Trust and The Christie Teenage and Young Adult Service have been invaluable to us, and we’re thrilled to be able to give back and provide the means for so many more young people battling cancer, and their families, to have a support system to help them through it.”

Hamish, now 26, also expressed his gratitude, saying: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped to make my vision a reality. Hamish’s MARVELous Night Out was my biggest fundraising mission yet, and people were extremely generous in giving their time and support. This meant we managed to raise a huge amount for the wonderful charities and people behind them that ensured I never had to face cancer alone.”

The event was hosted by local presenter Mike Toolan and featured a three-course meal. The proceeds will go towards helping other young people facing cancer receive the same level of support that Hamish experienced during his battle.

Littleborough’s close-knit community played a vital role in the event’s success, demonstrating how the generosity and unity of a small town can make a big difference.