The official gala dinner of Hotelympia 2012 took place at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge and raised £80,000 which will be shared between both charities. Speaking post event, Penny Moore, CEO, Hospitality Action commented, "What an amazing evening! It's fantastic to see the whole industry out in support of Hospitality Action and The Springboard Charity. "A huge thank you to everyone who lent their support by providing food, services, goods and auction prizes. It is thanks to their outstanding efforts that we will be able to continue supporting the many people in need across our industry." Anne Pierce, CEO, TheSpringboard Charity expressed: "I am so grateful to all those involved for helping to make The Big Event such a triumph! The extraordinary generosity shown this evening will enable both charities to carry on changing people's lives. In particular I'd like to thank BaxterStorey, Compass Group and Elior UK also Fresh Montgomery, Jellybean Creative Solutions, William Murray Communications, DRP Group, Heiko Figge and Guoman & Thistle Hotels for their outstanding support." Funds raised will go towards helping young, unemployed and disadvantaged people improve their prospects for economic well-being by channelling them into sustainable employment opportunities within the sector. The money will also go towards those who have worked or are working in the hospitality industry in their times of crisis. The charity auction, hosted by celebrity chef Brian Turner, raised £23,000, with bidders competing for twelve exclusive lots, including a masterclass for six people from Reggae Reggae sauce creator Levi Roots, courtesy of by AB World Foods, a VIP day with the Red Arrows courtesy of the Royal Air Force and a private dining experience for 10 people at Luke's Dining Room courtesy of Sanctum on The Green and chef Luke Thomas. Throughout the evening guests were kept in good humour by impressionist Rory Bremner, entertained by a version of one of the most successful West End theatre shows of all time and played out to music by the seven-piece Chance Band.