Sefton Park Palm House to host the Henry Yates Thompson Dinner

Posted on 18 August 2016
By Khyle Deen
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Sefton Park Palm House is preparing to host its second fundraising dinner aptly named The Henry Yates Thompson Dinner.

On Saturday, October 29, it is hoped that 220 people will descend on the Grade II* listed glasshouse for an evening of fun amongst the florals, whilst commemorating the man who donated £10,000 to build the Palm House back in 1896.

To keep the Palm House flourishing and raise funds for the much loved venue, supporters will enjoy a three-course meal and wine from Chapman Holmes, complimentary fizz, entertainment, dancing and fireworks. The evening will be hosted by long-time friend of the Palm House and BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Roger Phillips.

Interim Director of Sefton Park Palm House Janet Pell said: “We know that the Palm House is very well loved, but also we know that we need to preserve its future. That means maximising our fundraising efforts at a time when public subsidy is very hard to keep. Our plans to cherish and maintain the Palm House are in the making, but we need the resources to put our ideas into action.”

Commissioned in 1896, Sefton Park Palm House was a gift to the city from Liverpool millionaire Henry Yates Thompson. Having barely survived The Blitz, the glasshouse eventually fell into disrepair and was closed in the 1980s. Following an innovative local fundraising campaign, this led to a full restoration and a grand re-opening in 2001.

Janet added: “Henry Yates Thompson gave his support 120 years ago to build this beautiful space for us all to enjoy still to this day. It’s now our turn to raise some much needed funds. We have planned an exceptional evening in the magical world of the crown jewel of Sefton Park.

“Ideal for friends and clients alike, you can book whole tables of between 8 and 12 guests or come as couples or smaller groups and meet new people. We look forward to sharing our passion with supporters to safeguard the future of the Palm House.”

Trustee Fran Parkinson said: “More than 200 people enjoyed a delicious meal and Art Auction at our ‘ Gardeners’ Alms’ dinner in May 2015. We raised a staggering £12,500 thanks to the people who came, generous local people who donated art works and companies who provided raffle prizes. Our target this year is to match the generosity of Henry Yates Thompson, which is why we have named our dinner in his honour. We are looking forward to welcoming old and new friends to a fun evening this October. Book now to avoid being disappointed.”

The Henry Yates Thompson Dinner will take place on Saturday, October 29 at 7:30pm. Tickets are priced at £55 and are available by contacting laura.mccarten@palmhouse.org.uk or calling 0151 726 9304.

For more information visit www.palmhouse.org.uk or call 0151 726 9304.

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