The North West Ladies Luncheon, held on 12 February at the Mere Golf and Country Club, was a great success and raised £9635 of much needed funds for BEN, the Automotive Industry Charity.

276 guests enjoyed a delicious three course lunch and were entertained by a superb fashion show by Alizari, winner of the 2008 Best Womenswear Retailer in the UK Award. The ladies had the opportunity to bid for a fantastic range of signed sporting memorabilia in the silent auction, including items signed by Tiger Woods, Lewis Hamilton, David Beckham and Ronaldhino. There were also some fantastic prizes won in the raffle, such as tickets to the F1 Santander British Grand Prix at Silverstone, rally and track days, and a number of designer fashion items. In addition, guests were invited to browse the range of high quality stalls present on the day, with a donation made to BEN for every purchase.

The event was organised by Helen Lace, BEN Regional Development Manger in the North West and Northern Ireland, who commented, "The Luncheon was an amazing success and a truly enjoyable day. I would like to thank all our sponsors, advertisers, stallholders, those who donated raffle and auction prizes and everyone who supported the event - without them this event would not have been possible. The money raised will help us to continue our vital work within the industry."

BEN needs to raise £12 million each year. Our Welfare Team currently look after 760 men, women and children in the North West and have given out grants of more than £543,000. We also have a nursing and residential centre in Southport, Alexandra House, which cares for 56 residents who have a connection to the industry. The funds raised from the North West Ladies Luncheon will help us to continue to help those who need our support in times of hardship or distress.

Further Information:

If you would like information on next year's Ladies Luncheon or ways you can support BEN in the North West, please contact Helen Lace on 0161 969 7558 or email helen.lace@ben.org.uk

To view more photos from the North West Ladies Luncheon 2009, take a look at BEN's Flickr account.