Over 950 guests dug deep to raise much needed funds for the only charity that provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families.

The construction industry's highly anticipated premier networking event raised the roof at the Westminster Park Plaza on Friday 6 December.

Rugby presenter and commentator David Flatman, ‘Flats,’ along with Ellie Costello, Weekend Breakfast presenter and journalist, opened up proceedings with a hint of the all star line up to come.  

Edward Naylor and Lyndsey Gallagher, Co-Chairs of the Trustees, formally opened the proceedings and paid tribute to two industry stalwarts Des O’Rourke and John Carey who had passed away earlier in the year, prompting a respectful standing ovation from the room.

Former CEO Bill Hill was also presented with a commemorative Lighthouse pin and bottle of whiskey in recognition of his service to the charity.

This year saw MACL net the coveted Peter Capel’ Cup, which is awarded each year in recognition of outstanding achievements from organisations supporting the charity.

MACL’s annual fishathon has raised more than £60,000 since its inception four years ago.

Ron Sant, Senior Site Manager, said: “We are incredibly proud to be awarded the Peter Capel Cup and truly cannot think of a better charity to raise money for. Each year we are staggered by the amount of money we raise through the fishathons, but for us, it goes beyond that, it’s an opportunity to raise awareness around wellbeing within the construction industry, helping to support those in need.”

Guests enjoyed a gourmet three course meal and auctioneer Addison Gelpey, prompted some frantic bidding for some unique lots including a Four Ball at Gleneagles, Scotland, a White Gold Heart Diamaond Pendant, a Private Yacht Sailing Day for eight and a four person Clay Shooting Day.

VIP guests from the sporting arena were then welcomed to the stage - former Liverpool and England international footballer, John Barnes, along with former England rugby centre Mike Tindall and Savannah Marshall, British Professional Boxer and MMA fighter.

Barnes shared his experiences playing with the infamous Paul Gascoigne and the behind the scenes banter of the Italia 90 World Cup.

Next under the spotlight was Tindall with tales of rugby antics and hilarious insights into his introduction to royal family protocols and his ‘baptism of fire’ at the royal dining table.

Marshall continued to keep the audience in stitches with her confession of “really not liking” one of her opponents, Claressa Shields, and how that helped her to “punch really hard”.

The dynamics between the guests was clear, finding common ground in the challenges of performing at your peak and representing your country at world class level.

A bid of £2,000 for Barnes to sing infamous ‘World in Motion’ rap was accepted, and after sharing the context of his star role on the song, he delivered on his promise, much to the delight of the audience.

Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, said: “This is our opportunity to reflect on our charity's achievements throughout the year: the services we've delivered and the people we have helped. But most of all it's to celebrate the sucesses of our fantastic supporters.

"Whether you are helping us to spread the message of support, organising fundraising, committing to be an annual company supporter or attending one of our events, you are helping us to make a life changing and life saving impact for our construction community.

"I am completely amazed at the amount of money raised, surpassing all previous fundraising events. Guests were hugely generous with their support of the live and silent auction, raffle entries and donations on the day. We know how tough it is out there at the moment which makes it all the more meaningful.

"A huge thank you goes out to everyone that supported us, whether it was volunteering behind the scenes, booking tables, sponsoring the event or donating auction items, thank you so much.”

The event culminated in a rousing rendition of opera favourites from tenor Martin Toal and violinist Rosie Judge, with guests waving napkins and swaying to the music. The festivities continued well into the evening with guests embracing the Christmas spirit and making the most of the networking opportunities.

If you or anyone you know is struggling, you can reach out for free and confidential support now via 24/7 Construction Industry Helplines;  0345 605 1956, (UK)  1800 939 122 (ROI) or Text HARDHAT to 85258 (UK) 50808 (ROI).