Piers Morgan had the tables well and truly turned on him as he faced questions from Norwood’s President Richard Desmond at the annual Norwood Property Lunch on Friday. The journalist, TV presenter and Britain’s Got Talent judge was guest of honour at the event, which raised an incredible £500,000 for the Charity’s life-changing work with people with learning disabilities, and children and families in need.
The Norwood Property Lunch is a key fixture in the property industry calendar and attracted more than 500 professionals from some of the country’s biggest firms. It was sponsored by Amlin, Derwent London, Savills and Earlcrown, while its media sponsor was Property Week.
During his interview with Richard Desmond, the Chairman of Northern Shell, Piers answered questions on his colourful career, the phenomenon of celebrity, the new coalition Government and his beloved Arsenal. Afterwards, he said: “While I am more used to posing the questions, rather than answering them, I was happy to be put under the spotlight by Richard. I have known about Norwood’s excellent work for several years, and was delighted to lend my support to such a wonderful cause.”
The event also featured the annual Norwood Property Awards, which recognises excellence and achievement within the industry.
- The Deal of the Year award was presented to Drivas Jonas and Deloitte, for a merger in January which created the Drivas Jonas Deloitte real estate group.
- The Development of the Year award was presented to Irvine Sellar, of Sellar Properties, for the London Bridge Quarter, or ‘Shard of Glass’.
- The Prime London Residential Developer of the Year award was presented to Earlcrown, for sustained success in the central London market during the recent downturn.
- The Lifetime Achievement award was presented to Sir John Ritblat, former Chairman and current Honorary President of British Land.
Following the event, Richard Desmond said: “I would like to thank Piers for helping to provide such an entertaining conclusion to a fantastic event, which has generated vital funds for Norwood’s life-changing work with people with learning disabilities, and children and families in need. I’d like to think I gave him a run for his money!
“I would also like to thank the event’s sponsors, Amlin, Derwent London, Savills, Earlcrown, and Property Week, all the brochure advertisers and, most importantly, our guests. Without their generous support, Norwood would not be able to provide the services which the children, families and adults who use them expect and deserve.”
The fundraising total was achieved through ticket sales, sponsorship, brochure advertising, and an auction, raffle and fundraising appeal on the day. The appeal was made by Gary Sacks, Norwood’s Chair of Fundraising, and Daniela Phillips, 29, who lives in Norwood residential accommodation in Finchley and has used the Charity’s services throughout her life.
