AN organisation is being investigated by a cancer charity following an allegation money donated on a fundraising night was never received.
Cancer Research UK has launched the investigation into the event - at which former football manager Ron Atkinson was a guest speaker.
The event was organised by city-based Allstar Speaking.
It took place on March 10, 2017, at Worcestershire County Cricket ground’s Graeme Hick suite, and is understood to have included representatives from local businesses.
A source has told the Worcester News that a “substantial figure” was raised on the night, claimed to be more than £2,000, with people giving generously after being told the money raised would go to the cancer charity, the source alleged.
“People were told a donation from every ticket sale would go to the charity,” the source said.
“There was a raffle, and an auction including a signed Pele shirt.
“There were Cancer Research balloons. They gave money in good faith, but money was not donated,” the source claims.
City firms that donated raffle prices included Mazak, Home Experts and Spice Cuisine.
A leading city businesswoman who supported the event has told the Worcester News she made a donation to the raffle, and a cash donation after being contacted by Nick Peet from Allstar Speaking ahead of the event.
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A post on Allstar’s Facebook describes the organisation as a “family run, Worcestershire based events organisation” adding “this is us living our dreams to meet, speak to and listen to some of our greatest sporting heroes.”
The event was originally advertised to feature Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock, but Mr Atkinson stepped in at the last minute.
A Facebook post, in January 2017, advertising the event says: “A donation from every ticket sale goes to Cancer Research.”
After the event, another post was put on the Facebook site saying: “Awesome night on our first event with a great turn out.
“Big Ron Atkinson entertained guests and mingled having photos and signing autographs. Comedian Aaron James was amazing running the show.
“We would like to thank everyone who came and supported us.”
A spokesman for Cancer Research UK said: “We have been made aware of an allegation and we are investigating.
“Cancer Research UK takes all such allegations seriously and we report incidents to the police where our findings indicate a crime may have been committed.”
An Allstar Speaking spokesman declined to comment, when approached by a Worcester News reporter.
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