The inaugural Get-A-Head charity annual sporting luncheon was a sell-out with companies and their guests queuing up to hear from sporting stars including legendary football manager Harry Redknapp.
Former England rugby international and star of “I’m a Celebrity!, Get me out of here!” James Haskell was joined by former Olympic and World badminton medallist Gail Emms at the event, held at Swallows Nest Barn at Sherborne Farm in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside, near Warwick.
The event was held in aid of the Get-A-Head Charitable Trust, which was founded in the Midlands in 1994 to support those experiencing head and neck cancer.
Tom Bromwich, chair of the Trust, said: “Get A-Head funds vital research into the causes and treatments of head and neck conditions as well as paying for pioneering surgical equipment and education for healthcare professionals.
“It also provides life-changing equipment for patients that isn’t available through the NHS, and direct patient support, from support groups to cost of living grants.”
To date, the charity has raised over £10 million.
Tom Bromwich, founding partner of commercial property agency Bromwich Hardy, has had a long association with the charity, after his twin brother was treated for thyroid cancer by consultant John Watkinson.
Tom and his three children have all since had their thyroid removed to reduce their risk of the disease after they were found to have a genetic risk factor.
He said: “As well as hearing from James Haskell and Gail Emms on their sporting careers and where their career in retirement has taken them, we also enjoyed a live auction conducted by Gail.
“Prizes included the chance for the lucky winner and a friend to play golf with Harry Redknapp and also to try their hand at Padel – her new passion – with Gail.”
Now the committee is starting work on plans for next year’s luncheon, with the date and venue to be announced soon.
And the next fund raising event for the diary is the Get A-Head Charity Clay Shoot Challenge, at the prestigious Holland & Holland Shooting Grounds, on Friday 14 May 2027. Details here Charity Clay Shoot Challenge with Get A-Head 2027 – Get Ahead
