Haigh's Farm Shop owner's 50th birthday party raises more than £50,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance and The Kirkwood Hospice

The celebration for Marieke Haigh, part of the family run business, drew hundreds of attendees who generously supported the two charitable causes, while marking her milestone birthday.

At the heart of the evening was an auction boasting 25 lots, thoughtfully contributed by local businesses and friends, presenting guests with the opportunity to bid on unique items and experiences.

Among the sought-after auction lots were a box at Pontefract Races with full hospitality, a day of simulated game shooting at Grimston Park in Tadcaster, an original oil painting from the esteemed artist Richard Gower's private collection, and a week-long stay for up to eight people in a self-catering ski chalet at the picturesque Ovronnaz Ski Resort in Switzerland.

Guests were also treated to an array of entertainment, including live music sets featuring Marieke herself, two bars, a late-night disco, magic performances, an ice cream van and a carousel.

The event catered to guests of all ages and also featured a range of attractions such as a kids' sweet shop, a bouncy castle and a bucking bronco.

From the total of £50,472 that was raised on the night, Yorkshire Air Ambulance has received £25,236 that will offer vital ongoing support for the charity’s missions.

Marieke said: "I'm overwhelmed by the incredible donations my birthday auction received.

"It is truly beyond fantastic to witness how a celebration can transform into an opportunity to make a significant difference for such important charities like Yorkshire Air Ambulance and The Kirkwood Hospice.

"None of this would have been possible without the kindness and generosity of everyone involved.

"To be able to raise over £50,000 for my 50th birthday is truly humbling - £1,000 for each year of my life!"

Throughout the evening, guests were also encouraged to donate via collection buckets, further bolstering the overall fundraising effort.

At a recent cheque presentation held at The Kirkwood Hospice, representatives from both charities gratefully received the donations and expressed their heartfelt thanks to Marieke for her support.

Stef Maynard, West Yorkshire community fundraiser at YAA, who attended the cheque presentation, said: "Marieke has been an unwavering supporter since 2018, demonstrated through her personal fundraising efforts and the consistent support from Haigh's Farm Shop.

"Her steadfast commitment to giving back to charitable organisations, such as ours, is undeniably inspiring.

"This support enables us to maintain our crucial life-saving missions, ensuring swift and essential care reaches Yorkshire's residents during their most critical moments.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who generously contributed fantastic auction prizes, actively participated in bidding, and made donations on the night.

"Of course, a special acknowledgment goes to Marieke for her exceptional planning and organisational prowess, which made this extraordinary event a reality."

For more information about Yorkshire Air Ambulance and how you can support the charity’s life-saving work, visit www.yaa.org.uk