Organised in partnership with Salone Events, the fundraiser brought together an exceptional group of people, cars and experiences, united by a shared commitment to doing meaningful good. By the close of the evening, just over £34,000 had been raised to support halow’s work with young adults with learning disabilities across Surrey.
Hosted by noted motor-noter, Jethro Bovingdon, guests from across the automotive, motorsport and enthusiast communities were given a rare glimpse into the Birch Vault at the Birch Gatwick HQ before being invited to bid on an array of money-can-buy experiences.
Motorsport Figures in Attendance
The evening was significant not only for its charitable purpose, but also for the presence of respected figures from the world of motorsport. Damon Hill – a founder of halow – inspired and informed the guests and was reunited with a Jordan 198 – the same model with which he won the 1998 Belgian Grand Prix.
Also present was Nicolas Hamilton, whose career and advocacy continue to inspire many within and beyond motorsport. His presence reinforced the evening’s broader themes of inclusion, opportunity and resilience — principles closely aligned with Halow’s mission.
Hamilton’s story was a true inspiration to all present; hestayed till the end of the event then drove the two hours back home on a wet Fridaynight.
“It was a great night to be present with Damon and Tom and for Tom to ask me up on stage,” said Hamilton. “And it was really notable to see so much money raised for a worthy cause.”
Birch Commercial Director Tom Chilton also took part in discussions during the evening, reflecting Birch’s close ties to motorsport and its role as a partner to drivers, teams and automotive heritage alike.
A Rare Glimpse Inside the Birch Vault
For many guests, the evening offered a rare opportunity: a peek inside the Birch Vault itself. Normally closed to all but staff, the vault was briefly opened to allow attendees to see first-hand how Birch applies museum-grade standards of security, care and presentation to automotive assets.
The experience reinforced Birch’s founding ethos — that cars of significance should be treated with the same respect as fine art — and allowed guests to understand how meticulous custody protects value, provenance and condition over the long term.
A Lotus Icon with Motorsport History
Within the Birch Vault for the evening was a special guest thanks to Classic Team Lotus, which supplied a Lotus 49 to support the event.
The Lotus 49 is one of the most important racing cars ever built: the first Formula One car designed around the Cosworth DFV engine, a combination that reshaped Grand Prix racing and dominated an era. And the link to the evening was the car was one driven by Graham Hill to victory in the 1968 Monaco Grand Prix.
A Carefully Curated Charity Auction
At the heart of the fundraiser was a live charity auction featuring a selection of premium experiences and automotive-related offerings, all donated without cost to the charity. The auction catalogue reflected the breadth of support for the cause, with contributions spanning motorsport, luxury travel, sport and the arts. Motorsport commentator Scott Woodwiss was on auctioneer duties.
Auction lots included:
A Private Champagne River Cruise on the Thames at Henley donated by Superstars Experiences–
Isle of Man TT 2026 access with Melbray Laycock Racing, offering behind-the-scenes insight into one of motorsport’s most demanding events
WorldSBK VIP paddock tickets, providing unparalleled access to the Donington round of the championship with Pata Maxus Yamaha World SBK thanks to Ampito– Liverpool FC hospitality at Anfield, thanks to Ampito
A two-day track experience at Circuito de Navarra, thanks to Salone Events
A standout piece within the auction was a bespoke motorsport artwork created by Road Race Rally, produced through more than 70 hours of detailed craftsmanship. The artwork captured the spirit of racing heritage and proved highly sought-after on the night.
Birch also contributed directly by donating two auction lots aligned with its expertise: 12 months vehicle storage at Birch Gatwick and 12 months at the forthcoming Birch Brooklands facility.
Supporting the halow Project
Founded more than 20 years ago, the halow Project provides tailored support for young adults with learning disabilities, ranging from a few hours of weekly assistance to full-time, 24-hour care with a focus on skills development, dignity and long-term independence.
The event formed part of Halow’s 20th anniversary year, giving the evening added significance. Every element of the fundraiser — from the venue to the auction — was structured so that all proceeds went directly to the charity, reinforcing the shared intent behind the night.
Birch extends its thanks to Salone Events, Lotus Classic, Road Race Rally, all auction contributors and every guest who supported the evening. Most importantly, Birch is proud to have played a part in supporting the vital work of the Halow Project — now and into the future.
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