Paphitis to share his secrets at charity fundraiser
RETAIL tycoon and former Dragons’ Den investor Theo Paphitis is to be the guest speaker at a fundraising dinner for charity.
Theo, owner of Ryman, Boux Avenue and Robert Dyas retail businesses, will share some of his experiences from Dragons’ Den and his career – which also includes a stint as chairman of Milwall FC, at the event at Salford’s Lowry Hotel on Wednesday, March 26.
Organisers hope to raise at least £30,000 for equipment for the Manchester Centre for Children’s Vision at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital.
The hand-held machine captures high-quality images to help diagnose and better manage children’s eye conditions.
The charity, A Smile for Orly, was established last year by Rebecca and Lee Feddy, of Hale, after their 18-month-old daughter died in her sleep from natural causes in December 2012.
Since its inception, the charity has raised more than £80,000 for projects at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, including a sensory play room.
Fundraising activities for A Smile for Orly have included a group of 165 supporters taking part in last May’s Bupa Great Manchester Run.
Rebecca, 33, and Lee, 32, who have a four-year-old daughter and a newborn son, said: “Our lives changed for ever when Orly was taken from us without any warning.
“We set up the charity with the idea of turning tragedy into something positive for the wider community.
“We’re delighted that Theo will be the guest speaker at our fundraising dinner.”
Theo said: “When I heard Orly’s story, I immediately wanted to lend my support to the fundraising in her memory. I am delighted to be able to help the charity raise much-needed funds that will improve the lives of so many children in the years to come.”
Around 300 businesspeople and supporters of the charity are expected to attend Wednesday’s dinner.
