An evening with cricket legend boosts charities in Milton Keynes

5th July 2012

Over 200 people from across Milton Keynes ‘caught’ up with England’s most capped cricketer, when an event was held in the city to support two charities.

An evening with former England Captain Alec Stewart was held at stadiummk to raise funds for Age UK Milton Keynes and Niamh’s Next Step.

Alec, who was at the home of MK Dons Football Club as an ambassador for Clydesdale Bank, was invited to speak at the event by the Bank’s Milton Keynes Financial Solutions Centre (FSC).

The evening, which was compered by MK Dons chairman Pete Winkelman, included a buffet, charity auction, live music from band Arcane, and a questions and answers session with Alec and raised funds to be split between the two charities.

Age UK Milton Keynes provides services and support to more than 12,000 people every year, while Niamh’s Next Step was set-up to raise funds for Niamh Curry.

Niamh needed specialist treatment in the USA after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive childhood cancer in late 2010 and sadly passed away on May 20 aged just five.

Andrew Franklin, managing partner at Clydesdale Bank’s Milton Keynes FSC on Midsummer Boulevard, said the event received tremendous support from the local community.

“We were delighted to help organise this event for two brilliant charities,” he said.

“Age UK Milton Keynes makes a huge difference to the lives of thousands of people and their families across the borough every year, while the story of Niamh Curry has touched so many people.

“The courage that Niamh showed, and her family still continues to show, is truly remarkable and by holding events like this we can play a small part to help children get the treatment they deserve.

“We’re really grateful Alec gave up his time to share his experiences of his hugely successful sporting career. We would like thank everyone for coming along and making the event a tremendous success.”

Jane Palmer, chief executive of Age UK Milton Keynes, added: “As Pete Winkelman said during the evening, getting old is something that will affect all of us over time, we hope.

“Thank you all for supporting this event, especially Alec who is supported by Clydesdale Bank and has given us such a fascinating insight into the world of international cricket.

“Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended the event, Age UK Milton Keynes can carry on making a difference to the lives of people in later life in Milton Keynes for many more years to come.“