News > The John Betjeman Gala

Created: 2006-09-01 18:00:20

An impressive line up of showbiz stars took to the stage at The Prince of Wales Theatre in London on Sunday, 10 September 2006 to mark the centenary of the birth of one of Britain's best-loved poets, Sir John Betjeman, and to help raise money for SANE.

The Prince of Wales (pictures left with Marjorie Wallace and Betjeman's, daughter Candida Lycett Green) and The Duchess of Cornwall joined the performers at the John Betjeman Gala, sponsored by Shell, to help celebrate the life and work of the former poet laureate who died in 1984.

Among those taking part in the gala, hosted by Barry Humphries, were Hugh Grant, Stephen Fry, Richard E. Grant, Edward Fox, Ronnie Corbett, Jools Holland, Griff Rhys Jones, Bill Nighy, Suggs, Prunella Scales together with the St Pauls Cathedral Choir.

It was an honour that SANE was chosen as the beneficiary of the event and over £120,000 was raised.

"We are extremely grateful to Candida Lycett Green, who has inherited her father's energy and talents, for inviting SANE to be part of the wonderful centenary celebrations," said Marjorie Wallace. "We would like to thank that gala committee and all the performers, particularly Barry Humphries, for such a memorabel evening."

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