Ladies’ Luncheon raises over £100,000

Betty Campbell MBE, organiser of the Ladies' Luncheon, with models from Asda Antrim who took part in a fashion show at the event.

The 24th annual event was held last Wednesday in the Templeton Hotel, with Mrs Campbell thanking those gathered for their support over the years.

“This is the 24th year of the Ladies’ Luncheon and to date we’ve raised £119,000,” Mrs Campbell said.

She added: “I want to thank everyone here for coming along, and thank those who have supported the event over the years.”

Over 170 ladies attended the luncheon, enjoying a drinks reception followed by a four-course meal and fashion show, kindly provided by Asda Antrim.

“I want to thank the Templeton Hotel team for another fantastic year and for their support,” Betty said.

She added: “And I want to thank Asda for putting on the fashion show.

“They kindly provided the fashion show for free meaning as much money as possible can be raised for Macmillan Cancer Support.”

Betty Campbell MBE, organiser of the Ladies' Luncheon, with Baroness May Blood, guest speaker at the event.

Guest speaker at the luncheon was Baroness May Blood who spoke of how she started working off in a factory at the age of 14, to her work on the peace line and ultimately ending up in the House of Lords.

“I am just an ordinary woman who has had the most extraordinary opportunities,” Baroness Blood said.

Congratulating Betty on hosting the luncheon, Baroness Blood said: “Twenty-four years, that is magnificent.”

Betty presented Baroness Blood with a bouquet and thanked her for speaking at the event.

Looking towards next year, Betty remarked: “Next year will the 25th Ladies’ Luncheon and we’re going to have a party to celebrate.”