Racehorse Sanctuary News

30th July 2007

Debbie Bonham / Mark Butcher Concert

Friday 13th July at Hurtwood Park Polo Club in Surrey was definitely the place to be if you wanted to hear some fantastic rock music whilst raising funds for the centre at the same time.

Sam showing off the Brian May/Paul Rogers signed guitar for auction.

Debbie Bonham and her husband Peter along with England Cricketer and star from the BBC series “Just the two of us” Mark Butcher teamed up with a host of stars to create this fabulous night’s entertainment which kicked off at 7pm and finally drew to close at well gone midnight.

A big vote of thanks goes to the Small Faces drummer Kenny Jones who is the proud owner of Hurtwood Park for not only allowing us to use his super facilities but also for taking to the stage and playing not only with Debbie but his own band The Jones Gang making the evening even more special. Tony Moore from Cutting Crew also not only provided some wonderful music but also donated a box full of his latest CD’s to be sold on behalf of the centre.

Hayden’s big moment on drums accompanying Debbie Bonham.

Half way through the evening none other than Zak Starkey son of the legendary Ringo Star appeared and gave us a treat when he played for Debbie, he then presented us with a signed drum skin donated by his father to be auctioned before passing on some useful tips on drumming to Hayden who was lucky enough to be given the chance to show off his skills on the drums with Debbie herself.

	Whilst this really was a rock music extravaganza there was a huge amount of behind the scenes work that went into making the evening so successful both on the night itself and several weeks building up to the event.
Some of the auction items up for sale.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank some of those that put so much effort into the concert and looked for nothing in return:

Karen Goulder and her family Stewart, Tiarni, Jane and Hayden who spent there time driving around the Southeast pinning up posters prior to the event and manning the door on the evening.

Gaynor Renwick (Trustee) who refused point blank to let anyone through the door without payment just to be frustrated when she found out that some had sneaked in through the rear doors unnoticed.

Lydia Richards and her family who sold no end of raffle tickets as well as parading auction items for the audience to view.

Val Jones and her friend who unfortunately I don’t have her name for manning the stand for the evening.

Pam Tetley (Trustee) and Lady Huntly for not only supplying a huge bottle of whiskey to be raffled separately but also for selling all of the tickets as well.

Also to all those who so generously donated both auction items and raffle prizes to raise funds.

Debbie has indicated that she may be able to put on another concert in aid of the centre around Christmas time so fingers crossed that this happens, we will keep you all informed.