Well what a night we had on Saturday 3rd June at our inaugural Sunnydown School black tie fundraiser! Raising money is always a challenge but you rose to this by purchasing a raffle ticket or an event ticket, in some cases both - Thank you. We want to give our young men with communication and interaction difficulties often associated with Autism the most inspiring outdoor learning space starting with Burntwood Base. Here students will have a raised landscaped area surrounding a fire pit where Shakespeare recitals, bird watching, joke telling and marshmallow toasting can take place. This would then lead into a raised boardwalk through our woodland areas where bug hotels, observation points can be visited and finished in an outside classroom where a whole host of subjects can be taught.

Paul Jensen our Headteacher started the evening with a moving speech reminding us of the importance to continue to fight and provide for our young men. We were spoilt with live entertainment by the fantastic band Hustler who filled the dance floor thanks to their incredible live sets. Magician Andrew Kelly left guests aghast with his incredible tricks – what a talent he is! Fine canapés were served by the Clink charity and our guests were also treated to a few words spoken by Anna Kennedy OBE and Autism champion.

The live auction of 2 bonsai trees donated by 21 gold medal Chelsea Flower Show winner Peter Chan; the founder of Herons Bonsai; and a beautiful George Michael limited edition painting created on the day of his passing got the crowds excited with hands being raised. This was followed by the £10 raffle prize draws for items such as signed Tom Hardy pictures, echo dot, a day at the races, iPad and amazon fire to name just a few. The big moment arrived when the winning ticket was drawn for the Caterham 7 car. With just 199 tickets available the odds were excellent; the room was so silent a pin dropping could have been heard……. Ticket number 142 was drawn belonging to Mr & Mrs Baker. The runner up won a free weekends hire of a Caterham 7 car and this was won by ticket number 60 belonging to Mrs Shears.

Celebrations continued up until carriages at midnight with more dancing, cocktails and celebrations. It was a truly wonderful evening and it is all thanks to you and your wonderful support – Thank you from all of us at Sunnydown School.

Same again next year!