Cardiac charity raises £62,000 at sold-out Southampton gala

The glitz and glamour were in full swing on Saturday evening as cardiac charity Heartbeat’s annual Autumn Ball turned Southampton’s Leonardo Royal Hotel into a sold-out celebration with more than 300 guests attended.

The glittering black-tie event raised an incredible £62,000 before costs, with proceeds going towards supporting cardiac patients and their families cared for at the Wessex Cardiac Unit at University Hospital Southampton.

Hosted by comedian and entertainer Ian Richards, ball guests enjoyed a three-course dinner, auctions, raffles and games. Heartbeat patron James Beattie also announced his brand new golf challenge to fundraise for the charity.

Jazz vocalist Lucien De-Laloi, magician Colin Phillips and The DeLorean’s delivered a variety of live entertainment on the night. 

CEO of Heartbeat, Mark Ind said: “We raised a staggering amount on the night. The money will make such an enormous difference to what we do at Heartbeat, ensuring both patients and their families never have to go through treatment alone. They can be confident they’re receiving the very best of care.

“We are truly grateful for everyone who made it such a special evening. Fundraising events such as our Autumn Ball give us the opportunity to both celebrate all we’ve achieved and raise money to help us continue making a positive impact.”

Heartbeat provides life-saving support to cardiac patients and their loved ones across the South. In 2024 alone, the charity supported over 83,000 patients and families. Rotary Heartbeat House – one of Heartbeat’s many services – offers welcoming accommodation for relatives supporting a loved one whilst they undergo treatment at the cardiac unit.