Football legend John Barnes , MISSED A BEAT founder Mark Preston , freestyle football world record holder Steve Grey and local singer Adam Hillyer delivered a memorable fundraising event at GLOW on Aycliffe Business Park .
John Barnes entertained a handful of guests during a VIP meet-andgreet session ahead of the Aycliffe fundraising event .
Getting personal with a football legend For many attendees , the highlight of the evening was the meet-and-greet session with John Barnes .
Guests had the chance to chat with the football legend , snap photos and have shirts personally signed .
“ The look on people ’ s faces when they got to meet John said it all ,” said Mark .
“ He was warm , approachable and made everyone feel special .”
Bidding for a cause A standout moment of the night came during the charity auction , where a signed Carabao Cup Final shirt , donated by Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp , fetched an impressive £ 1,100 .
Barnes stepped into the role of auctioneer , passionately encouraging bids and emphasising the impact of every contribution .
“ Seeing the generosity of everyone during the auction was incredibly moving ,” said Mark .
“ The funds raised will go a long way in helping us achieve our mission of saving lives .”
Additionally , Newton Aycliffe FC chairman Alan Oliver joined Mark on stage to unveil the club ’ s new third kit , proudly sponsored by MISSED A BEAT .
This partnership , funded through a bonus ball raffle featuring signed shirts from Jürgen Klopp and Eddie Howe , will not only raise awareness of the charity but also support the local football club .
the night was the contribution of young entrepreneurs Riley and Jonnah . The duo raised an incredible £ 800 selling football cards to guests .
“ These boys are a credit to their families ,” said Mark .
“ Their enthusiasm and dedication to our cause were heartwarming to see .”
A team effort The event ’ s success was a testament to the dedication of the team behind it .
“ We couldn ’ t have done it without Lydia , Andrew and the entire GLOW team ,” said Mark .
“ Their support and attention to detail made the night truly unforgettable .”
The catering team also received high praise , with guests raving about the quality of the food and service .
Special thanks went to Sandra Earl and Justine Wilson for their stunning balloon arch and to photographer Chris Booth , whose incredible shots captured the energy and emotion of the night . His work was sponsored by Martin Walker .
The mission of MISSED A BEAT At the heart of the event was MISSED A BEAT ’ s mission to provide essential defibrillators and training to local communities .
Inspired by personal loss , the charity works tirelessly to prevent heart-related tragedies .
“ This isn ’ t just about equipment – it ’ s about giving people a chance to survive ,” Mark explained .
“ Every defibrillator we install could save a life , and that ’ s what drives us .”
The event raised over £ 12,000 through ticket sales , donations and auction bids .
“ We ’ re overwhelmed by the support ,” said Mark .
“ Knowing that this money will help save lives is the greatest reward .”
A grateful community Mark concluded with heartfelt thanks to the evening ’ s sponsors – Murtek and Partners , Workshop Supplies , Ramsey ’ s Garage , DSM Fabrications , Sparkwise Solutions Newton Aycliffe and G & A Joinery – for their unwavering support .
As the night came to a close , attendees left inspired , knowing they had been part of something truly special .
With memories of meeting a football legend and contributing to a life-saving cause , the event exemplified the power of community and the impact of coming together for good .
MISSED A BEAT is already looking forward to building on this success , continuing its mission to save lives and raise awareness .
As Mark put it : “ Together , we can create a safer future for everyone .”
Young heroes and community spirit Among the most inspiring moments of
Find out more about MISSED A BEAT at missedabeat . co . uk See more pictures on pages 34-35
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