Promoting friendship, support and fundraising in motor sport
Patron: Ms Jodie Kidd
President: Mrs Shirley Procter
Chairman: Mrs Leonora Hill
The Silverstone Wing was transformed into a glittering razzle dazzle 'Bling in the Wing' event to celebrate The Doghouse Owners' Club 50th Anniversary on Saturday 6 October 2012.
A star-studded list of motorsport's great and the good were among the 240 members and guests attending the glamorous occasion, enjoying the Club's prestigious night in true Doghouse style.
"It was a great honour to have original members Mrs Patty McLaren-Brickett, Lady Helen Stewart, Mrs Shirley Procter (Doghouse President), Mrs Annie Carrington Yates (past Chairman) and many others, including the 'Honorary Dog', Mr Howden Ganley, heading an impressive number of members who have supported this unique club through the decades. We shall endeavour to uphold the great legacy laid down by the original Doghouse members," commented Mrs Leonora Hill (Doghouse Chairman).
The champagne reception set the tone for a night of celebrations, with fabulous entertainment provided by singer and guitarist Damion, a thrilling operatic performance by The Three Waiters, followed by a fan dancer, belly dancer and burlesque dancer. Afterwards, the band Phoenix ended the evening with music for everyone to dance the night away.
Thanks to the Master of Ceremonies, Mr David Brodie, the packed programme ran perfectly; similarly, the live auction was deftly conducted by Mr James Knight of Bonhams. The Doors from the original Doghouse Suite were among numerous prized items in the auction; these doors had been signed by many of the drivers and motorsport royalty who visited the Silverstone suite; over the years, they have become a "Who's Who" of Formula 1 and motorsport legends.
As the evening drew to a close, Mrs Leonora Hill added: "We are very grateful and delighted to have continued support from so many in the Formula 1 world and throughout motorsport in our fundraising efforts for our chosen charities: Action Medical Research, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, Headway and the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance. Finally, thank you to everyone who helped make our 50th anniversary event such a brilliant success."
Since the moment the chequered flag was waved, messages of congratulations have been flooding in to the Chairman and Committee. The Doghouse Owners' Club 'Bling in the Wing' was a great tribute to the Club's first half century and - as everyone agreed - long may it continue!
