2021's Annual Fundraising Dinner preview
Denis Law Legacy Trust is hosting its first annual fundraising dinner in two years this week at a sold out Marcliffe Hotel and Spa.
In anticipation of the big do on Friday night, we take a look at what’s in store and how big money can be raised for the charity.
Special guests
The Trust’s annual dinner always attracts stars and this year is no different. Guided through the evening by esteemed compére Alex Fleming, the evening will include a Q&A with both Martin Buchan and Willie Henderson plus further entertainment from comedian Josh Daniels. Lord Provost will present grace and a later toast of thanks while Denis Law, Craig Brown, Willie Miller and John McMaster will also be in attendance.
Martin Buchan, born in Aberdeen, was a gifted centre-back and made captain of his hometown club at just 20 years of age. Within the year he’d led the team to victory in the 1970 Scottish Cup. He was soon bought by Manchester United for a then club record fee and remained there for more than 10 years, making over 450 appearances. He won the FA Cup as United’s captain in 1977 and remains the only player to win both the English and Scottish FA Cup as captain.
Also speaking at the dinner is an all-time Rangers great who played 29 times for Scotland. Willie Henderson was a revered winger who burst on to the scene as a teenager in the 60’s, eventually playing for the club for over 12 years and winning two league titles, four Scottish Cups and a further two League Cups. He played several times with Denis Law for Scotland, notably assisting his four goals vs Northern Ireland in 1962 and also scoring the other in a 5-1 win.
Live auction
Money raised through kindly donated auction items are key to the continual growth and success of Streetsport, the Trust’s flagship programme which aims to improve the lives of young people through sport and creative activity.
Up for grabs at this year’s dinner includes a host of signed and framed sports shirts, from a Manchester City one from Denis’ debut season, to an iconic Pelé Brazil replica and a 2021 Arsenal shirt. There’s also Legend Club tickets for the Manchester derby plus golf at both Castle Stuart and Trump International. Also available to bid on is a limited edition Bronze Maquette of the newly erected Denis Law statue in Aberdeen plus a unique hand-painted Kelly’s Cat celebrating Denis’ birthday, plus loads more.
Silent auction, #YesBallGames and more
A whole range of items are also available to be bid on through silent auctions. From surf lessons and an inflatable kayak to a Seiko watch and the weekend use of a Mini Cooper, there’s genuinely something for everyone!
Keep an eye out for the programme on the night for a full list of auction items. Each table will also have the opportunity to purchase a brand new #YesBallGames football which will be used as a table centre piece while there’ll also be a raffle and round of True or False? based on Denis Law’s career to kick off the night.
Every penny raised at the annual fundraiser will be used to enhance and grow the charity and its work in Aberdeen. Thanks to all of the individuals and companies who have helped, supported and donated in aid of this year’s event.
