On Saturday, we had the pleasure of attending the John Haynes Foundation Gala Dinner 2024, hosted at the beautiful Hilton Liverpool City Centre. This marked our fourth year as proud platinum sponsors of this incredible event, and once again, it was a night to remember. The event continues to be close to our hearts, as it celebrates the lasting legacy of John Haynes and the Foundation's mission to inspire and empower individuals to "Fly With The Eagles."

The evening kicked off with a fun and exciting game of Heads and Tails, with one lucky guest taking home a gourmet popcorn by Popcornaa and Prosecco hamper. Hosted by Simon Ross, the night featured a delicious three-course meal, official auction & a fun wheel of fortune raffle all setting the tone for another spectacular celebration.

Andrew & Carrie Dwerryhouse Enjoying The Event

Event Table Set Up 

We were treated to two stunning dance performances by the talented students from The City of Liverpool College, who truly set the stage for an evening filled with entertainment and inspiration. It was a privilege to watch these young talents perform.

One of the night’s biggest highlights was the recognition of the Young Eagles of the Year, as well as the prestigious Eagle of the Year Award presented to Robertson Construction. Celebrating these extraordinary individuals and organisations was a reminder of the positive impact the Foundation continues to make.

John Haynes Foundation Art For A Lucky Bidder

John Haynes Foundation Gala Dinner Room 

Wild Thang played an important role in supporting the event with branded materials, including everything from the event's printed collateral which included the program, donation envelopes, backdrops and much more,  along with our talented studio creating all design and digital assets. We are especially proud to have branded this year’s event, helping to ensure that it captured the true essence of John Haynes and his lasting legacy.

The funds raised at the event will continue to support the foundation’s initiatives, helping to empower more individuals than ever before to reach their full potential and this year they will be supporting between 500-1000 people. For nearly a decade John was a gigantic part of Wild Thang culture and over time became an integral part of our company family, mentoring and coaching our team to help both the team and company to ‘Fly With The Eagles’. To continue to support his foundation legacy is something very important and special to the whole team.   

Entertainment At The John Haynes Foundation Gala Dinner  

Hilda Yarker (CEO John Haynes Foundation) &  Simon Ross (Greatest Hits Radio) On Stage 

A particularly special moment came during the auction, where a beautiful, original drawing of John Haynes by his granddaughter Pixie was sold to one lucky bidder. This piece was created during the Foundation’s Train the Trainer day and added an extra personal touch to an already emotional evening. Huge well done to the foundation team, trustees, patrons, volunteers, supporters & partners/sponsors which included Greyside Planning,The City Of Liverpool College, Wirral Met College, Hilton Liverpool City Centre, Robertson Construction, Sefton Collection, Hill Dickinson, Sterling Plastering, Nugent Care, Matalan, Booker Flowers, The Art School, SLMC Consulting, Optimum Group, Everton Football Club, John Lewis, Kelly Bond, StayCity Aparthotels, Downtown in Business, Sterling Plastering, Lancashire Cricket, Fishlocks Flowers.

We are already looking forward to next year’s event and will continue to support the John Haynes Foundation in its goal to help 1 million individuals ‘Fly With The Eagles’. It’s an honour to be part of a cause that aligns so closely with Wild Thang’s values of giving back to the community and supporting those in need.

Original Drawing Of John Haynes By His Granddaughter Pixie 

Sarah-Louise McCartney Giving Away The Signed Everton Shirt

See below some helpful links, If you would like to find out more, support or even make a donation to The John Haynes Foundation & as always if you have any questions or queries about this blog post simply get in touch!