Katie Melua has become joint patron of Manx Cancer Help alongside her husband James Toseland as the island charity celebrates its 30th anniversary.
The internationally-renowned singer/songwriter, famous for such hits as The Closest Thing to Crazy and Nine Million Bicycles, offered the charity her support after attending the Manx Cancer Help Ball on May 11 with husband James, the two-time Superbike World Champion, in his capacity as Patron.
The ball, jointly sponsored by SMP Partners and Kleinwort Benson, included musical performances from local acts The Waltons, Coral Amphlett, Mike Corkill and 3 Million, and a surprise appearance on the piano by former island resident James, who is building a burgeoning musical career.
The black tie event, which also featured a raffle and auction, raised more than £17,000.
Ally Martin, of Manx Cancer Help, said: ‘It was a wonderful evening, which was only possible because of the hard work of everyone involved and the generous assistance of everyone who supported, especially the co-sponsors SMP Partners and Kleinwort Benson.’
‘We were stunned by the huge amount of money we raised, vital funds which will help us continue delivering our essential services. And the icing on the cake came when Katie said she would like to join James in becoming Patron of our charity.’
‘James has been a supporter of our work for a long time, and Katie has become very enthusiastic in her support, attending the launch of our 30th anniversary celebrations and the May Ball. She has been impressed by our work and moved by the people she has met, and wants to be involved even more in helping us deliver our services to people living with cancer.’
Established in 1983, Manx Cancer Help provides essential emotional support and expert counselling for cancer patients, their families, carers and friends. It offers a series of free, confidential sessions, face-to-face and over the phone, to anyone affected by a cancer diagnosis.
Mark Denton, Managing Director of co-sponsor SMP Partners, said: ‘It was a wonderful evening and the enthusiasm of James and Katie for Manx Cancer Help was clear, so it comes as great news that Katie will join her husband as a Patron of the charity.’
Mike Hennessy, Head of Isle of Man at Private Banking , Trust and Custody services provider Kleinwort Benson, co-sponsor of the ball, said: ‘After the incredible news about the huge amount of money raised by the May Ball, it comes as another boost that Katie is to join James as Patron.’
‘Katie is clearly a committed and caring person and her enthusiasm to be involved was very evident recently. She will be a fantastic ambassador and will further endorse everything that is already achieved by MCH in the island’