Variety supporter Angela Rippon OBE joined Miles Baron, Chief Executive of The Bingo Association at the Houses of Parliament to receive a £250,000 cheque. Funds were raised from bingo players and clubs nationwide and brings the total raised over the two-year partnership to £500,000.

During this time bingo clubs across the country have taken part in a wide range of fundraising activities including hosting football tournaments, cake sales, sky dives, runs and special £1 games and prize draws.

Miles Baron, Chief Executive of The Bingo Association commented:

“The bingo industry is a social activity rooted in the heart of local communities. What makes Variety such a great partner for bingo is that money raised by customers goes back to the communities from where it has come and therefore I am delighted to announce that we are extending our relationship with Variety for a third year”

Pamela Sinclair, Chief Barker said:

“We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the bingo association, and clubs, staff and customers in their fundraising, enabling Variety to continue our vital work improving the lives of sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people across the UK. On behalf of everyone at Variety, especially the children we help, I would like to say a very warm thank you.”

In addition to the cheque handover, speeches and hospitality, guests were given the opportunity to play a charity bingo game with numbers called by Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Bingo, Anna Turley. This saw an additional £200 being donated to Variety.