The comedy duo were at a glitzy ceremony in Newcastle to help launch the Chronicle Sunshine Fund’s appeal to raise £300,000 this year.
Money raised will pay for much-needed equipment for disabled youngsters in the region at a time when public sector cuts are starting to take their toll.
Ant and Dec, patrons for the charity, spoke of their pride at what had been achieved – but asked North East people to show their support once again.
Applications for help to the Sunshine Fund have increased by 30% as the economic climate sees vital services axed.
The bash at the Quayside’s Vermont Hotel was also to unveil the Fund’s official song – You’re My Sunshine – by North Tyneside outfit JD O’Neill band Band.
It is hoped the single, available at HMV, will fetch £10,000 in sales.
The TV stars heard from families caring for disabled children before fund director Carroll Pattison took to the stage to thank all guests for their support.
Dec said: “We have all seen first-hand tonight how important the fund is and what amazing work the Evening Chronicle Sunshine Fund does with families here in the North East and cuts to public sector funding have made it more important to raise money.
“Now, more than ever before, families are turning to the Sunshine Fund for more and more help.”
Ant said: “The equipment is not cheap and the fund needs more supporters to ensure disabled children don’t have to do without equipment that literally changes the quality of their life.
“As patrons of the Sunshine Fund, we want you all to really dig deep, please, and give your support to ensure we meet every request and give disabled people the best support possible.”
ITV’s Tyne Tees presenter Pam Royle hosted the event. She said: “These are families with a disabled child who have received funding for vital equipment from the Evening Chronicle Sunshine Fund; equipment such as specialised wheelchairs and trikes.
“They give disabled children a sense of independence and freedom because it means they can get out and about and play with their friends and not rely on family members to be there with them.
“It is also in many instances a case of improving their health and wellbeing.”
We would like to thank everyone who attended our fabulous launch event, in particular Ant & Dec, Pam Royle, and the Sunshine Families.
The Sunshine Fund would also like to thank Christine Nugent from Business Travel who donated £250, along with several other North East businesses.
To donate to the £300,000 Appeal go to: http://www.sunshinefund.co.uk/
Here are some pictures from the event:
