Inspiring Ladies Lunch raises more than £50k for two charities

POWERFUL MESSAGE: Liz Earle speaking at the Ladies Lunch

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

A new record of more than £50,000 has been raised for charity at the most successful Ladies Lunch so far.

Now firmly established as a key fixture in the regional fundraising calendar, the Ladies Lunch continues to grow year on year, bringing together businesses, community leaders and supporters to celebrate women’s achievements while generating vital funds for charity.

This year’s total of £50,613 will be split equally between Sailors’ Children’s Society and Smile Foundation, supporting their work with children, families and communities across the region.

The sold-out event at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hull highlighted the strength of collaboration, with both charities benefiting from a shared approach to fundraising that delivers meaningful, long-term impact.

Guests were inspired by a powerful keynote from renowned entrepreneur, author and beauty expert Liz Earle, whose candid reflections on leadership, resilience and women supporting women resonated strongly with the audience.

Her message felt especially poignant as the event took place just days before International Women’s Day.

First launched two years ago, the Ladies Lunch has evolved from an idea into a fully sold-out, high-impact event that plays a vital role in supporting both charities’ long-term sustainability.

Reflecting on that journey, Natasha Barley, CEO of Sailors’ Children’s Society, said: “This was just an idea three years ago, and to now see it as a fully sold-out event delivered in partnership with Smile Foundation is simply amazing.

“The generosity shown today will make a real difference to children and families who need it most.”

MAJOR FUNDRAISER: The 2026 Ladies Lunch

In addition to raising funds, the event provides an important platform for inspiration, storytelling and partnership-building, bringing supporters closer to the causes they are helping to fund.

Tessa Wray, head of partnerships at Smile Foundation, added: “We are incredibly grateful to all of this year’s sponsors – CHCP, Hinks Insurance, Prestige Recruitment, The Golden Thread Events Management Company and our main sponsor, Hugh Rice, whose support made this event possible.

“Hosting the Ladies Lunch so close to International Women’s Day made it even more inspiring. The energy in the room was incredible, and the £50,613 raised shows what can be achieved when businesses and communities come together with a shared purpose.”

 A highlight of the afternoon was the much-anticipated diamond giveaway, donated by luxury jeweller Hugh Rice.

The winner, Fiona Downie, selected a stunning piece from a choice of a diamond tennis bracelet, necklace or earrings, adding an extra moment of excitement to the celebration.

Speaking about Hugh Rice’s continued support, Danielle Rice said: “We are absolutely delighted with the incredible success of this year’s Ladies Lunch in support of Smile Foundation and Sailor’s Children Charity. The generosity, energy and genuine compassion shown by everyone truly reflects the power of community coming together for a shared purpose.

 “It was an inspiring afternoon celebrating women coming together to uplift, empower and create meaningful change.

“We’ve truly enjoyed adding that extra sparkle to the event and witnessing the incredible generosity of so many people coming together to champion such meaningful causes.”