Mel Evans Foundation: Enjoying a summer of support and solidarity
Written by Lynn Pritchatt from The Mel Evans MBE Foundation
The past quarter has been an incredibly busy and inspiring time for the Mel Evans MBE Foundation.
From glamorous fundraising events to heartfelt community efforts, our mission to support Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research and awareness continues to grow — and we are grateful for every supporter, partner, and friend who has helped along the way.
June: Celebration and fundraising
We kicked off the summer with two fantastic events: the George Pritchatt Memorial Ladies Classic and The Duke Summer Party.
Both were not only memorable social occasions, but also powerful fundraising efforts, with all proceeds going directly to vital MND research. A huge thank you to everyone who made these events possible.
July: Breaking ground and building hope
In July, we were proud to attend the ‘Breaking Ground’ ceremony at SITraN (Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience), marking the start of construction on a new research facility — a vital step forward in the fight against MND.
Later that month, we were inspired by the next generation of scientists at the MND Association Early Career Researchers Conference in Loughborough.
It was uplifting to hear from so many passionate early career researchers, scientists, and PhD students dedicating their work to finding answers to this cruel disease.
We also had the honour of attending the Match for Marcus — a special pre-season football match between Yeovil Town FC and Bristol City FC, held in support of Marcus Stewart.
Joined by our Foundation Patrons Lewis Johnson and Ness Abbot, we witnessed the football community rally around one of its own.
Just as Rugby and Cricket have come together for the late great Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow, and David 'Syd' Lawrence, the outpouring of support was powerful and humbling.
August: Bowls, rugby, and sunshine
August saw the Crown Green Bowling community step up in style.
The Roy Armson Invitation Classic, held in Lancaster, raised a fantastic £1,020 for the Foundation. Then, on August Bank Holiday Monday, two MND-affected sports — Crown Green Bowls and Rugby League — came together for a day of fun and friendly competition, raising an additional £420 in the late summer sunshine. A heartfelt thank you to all involved!
One woman, one mission: Mary Bates’ skydive
This month, 81-year-old Mary Bates from Dorset is taking on her second tandem skydive in aid of MND research. Mary’s courage is matched only by her determination, inspired by her own personal loss — her beloved son Spencer, who died from MND. Mary’s story reminds us of all the strength and love that drives our community.
Looking ahead: The Masked Entertainer Gala Dinner
The countdown is on for our flagship autumn event — the Masked Entertainer Gala Dinner, taking place at Edgbaston County Cricket Ground on Saturday 18th October.
This one-of-a-kind evening promises fun, friendship, fundraising, and fabulous entertainment — all in aid of the MND community.
We are thrilled to welcome a star-studded judging panel:
• Phil Tufnell and Christopher Biggins, both former I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Kings of the Jungle
• Peter Ash and Daniel Brocklebank, Coronation Street actors who brought MND to the nation’s living rooms through their powerful storyline.
• Legendary actor Amanda Barrie (Bad Girls, Carry On, Coronation Street)
We are also honoured to be joined by former England cricketers Chris Broad and Jonathan ‘Aggers’ Agnew, remembering their late friend and colleague David 'Syd' Lawrence, who recently lost his battle with MND.
Two courageous sportsmen — Marcus Stewart and Matt Gallagher — will be with us on the night, using their platforms to raise awareness and campaign for change.
With only 7 weeks to go, excitement is building! We cannot wait to welcome our supporters to Birmingham for what promises to be a night to remember.
Together, we keep the drum beating
From football fields to bowling greens, from skydives to gala dinners, the MND community and its supporters continue to inspire. Every event, every conversation, and every pound raised brings us closer to a future without Motor Neurone Disease. We will never stop banging the drum — on behalf of, and alongside, everyone affected by MND.
Thank you for standing with us.