Representatives of property and construction companies rallied to raise money for injured soldiers and their families at a glittering fundraising event, supported by Estates Gazette.
More than 700 people, including representatives from Savills, Colliers International and Investec, attended the Just Rifles annual dinner and dance at London’s The Brewery on 29 October, raising more than £200,000.
Soldiers mingled with Tottenham Hotspur football greats Micky Hazard and Graham Roberts, who conducted a boisterous round of heads or tails.
Auctioneer John Barnett presided over an auction, which included Elvis Presley and Jimi Hendrix memorabilia, and a day with snooker legend Jimmy White.
The Just Rifles charity has been supporting soldiers undergoing osseointegration, which involves metal bars being inserted into amputated limbs to aid the fitting of prosthetic limbs, as well as soldiers undergoing treatment for post-traumatic stress.
The charity also provides holidays for the widows and children of soldiers killed in war.
Bryan Fugler, founder of English Rose Estates, who established the charity appeal with his wife Carol, said: “This is a small way to help but vital in letting the families know their family members’ sacrifice is recognised.”
Event sponsor The Shaftesbury Building Company announced on the evening it would fund 500 holidays.
Other event sponsors were Longford Securities, Global Home Warranties and JSW Consultants.
A live band ensured they and other attendees were kicking up their heels late into the evening.
rebecca.kent@estatesgazette.com
