Estate agents came together to raise money for a worthy cause, whilst picking up tips from former director general of MI5
Property experts from around the UK came together for a charity lunch last Friday June 16.
Over 750 property professionals from both the residential and commercial sector attended the annual lunch at the Park Lane Hilton Hotel.
They raised over £600,000 for Norwood, a charity that provides vital support and services for vulnerable children and their families, children with special educational needs and adults with learning difficulties.
The estate agents picked up tips from a master of secret agents, guest speaker Dame Stella Rimington DCB MA, former director general of MI5.
“Agents – the human sources – are vital, even to this day,” she told the audience.
“They can do things that technology simply can’t. Counter-espionage is slow, careful work – you have to watch and engage.”
Guests also heard from Rebecca, who received support from Norwood and has gone on to gain a degree in chemistry and is currently studying for her PhD.
“Thinking back to the little girl who had lived in 16 homes in 14 years, sleeping on a mattress on the floor, I can’t believe that this is how my story turned out,” she said.
“My life was given a second chance because of Norwood and I’m going to make the most of it.”
Derwent London won the Commercial Award, the Residential Award went to Pocket Living, and Allford Hall Monaghan Morris took home the award for Outstanding Achievement.
Lead sponsors were Derwent London, Galliard Homes, and Savills. Property Week was the media partner, whilst the reception sponsor was Residential Land.
Lawrie Cornish sponsored the brochure and guest list, the entertainment sponsor, was Jones Lang LaSalle.
The awards were sponsored by The Office Group, and auction and raffle sponsor was Rhodium.
Committee co-chair Mark Pollack and director of Aston Chase said: “Today has been a huge success. The Norwood Property Lunch has established itself as leading industry event for both the commercial and residential sectors.”
“It is also a great networking opportunity, and an excellent opportunity for the property industry to ‘give back’ by supporting this wonderful charity.”
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