Over £20,000 was raised to support Plunkett UK’s work with community-owned businesses at our Gala Dinner, held last Tuesday (25 November).

Around 100 guests gathered at the elegant Royal Society of Arts House in London for a special evening raising funds to support our work in helping communities save vital local assets – from village shops and pubs to woodlands and farms – through community ownership.

The event, generously sponsored by Post Office Ltd, Thakeham and Wendling Beck, brought together delegates and partners from our placemaking network, community business representatives, recommended suppliers, Trustees, and many of the crucial partners who help make our work possible.

Guests in conversation at the Gala Dinner

Our Chief Executive, James Alcock, opened the evening with a reflection on why Plunkett exists and the historic roots that guide our mission today:

“Horace Plunkett’s mission was simple but transformative: to give local people ownership of land, property and businesses, and in doing so, restore pride, opportunity and a sense of belonging. These community owned ventures revitalised rural life, reshaped the Irish economy, and helped build the confidence of a nation finding its independence.

“At its core, our mission is about enabling people – of all ages, backgrounds and abilities – to shape the communities they call home. It’s about giving them back a sense of control, strengthening social connections, and creating places where everyone can truly belong.

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of this movement, and profoundly grateful to all our partners and supporters who believe in what we do and stand by our side.”

“We all know the social and economic challenges the UK is experiencing: increasing polarisation, pressures on public services and finances, declining trust, and a growing sense of fragmentation in so many communities.

“These issues are real, and they are urgent. Anthropy25 revealed a simple but powerful truth: places become vibrant when people are not merely residents, but active shapers of their surroundings. People are at their best when they feel both rooted in their heritage and confident about their future.

“And this is where Plunkett’s work aligns so strongly with the vision of Anthropy to inspire a better Britain. Nothing demonstrates the power of unity better than community businesses.”

Lucy Knill, CEO of Anthropy

Guests enjoyed an uplifting video message from Stephen Fry – who is a shareholder at The Blue Bell in Stoke Ferry, Norfolk – followed by an impact film highlighting how community-owned businesses are transforming lives across the UK. The film featured Jane and Julia from Broughton Community Shop and Skye from the White Horse in Stonesfield.

Watch both videos below

With thanks to Clark Wiseman from Studio8 for producing this video.

Charlie Ross leading the auction

Going once, going twice…

After a fabulous dinner, an auction was led by the incomparable Charlie Ross – TV presenter, world renowned auctioneer, and familiar face from BBC shows including Flog It! and Bargain Hunt.

With his trademark humour and energy, Charlie charmed the room and encouraged lively bidding across a range of lots, from luxury week long stays and fine dining experiences to unforgettable experiences.

Together helping more rural communities

Thanks to the generosity from those who gave on the night and from people bidding online, the money raised will go a long way in supporting our ambition to help community businesses establish and sustain the hubs that are vital to their local areas.

Plunkett is proud to represent more than 850 community businesses across the UK, yet many rural communities continue to face the loss of essential services – shops, pubs, and other lifelines that sit at the heart of community life.

When these services disappear, so too do opportunities for social connection, employment, and support. For many, their local community business is more than just a service – it’s a lifeline. With the ongoing support of our partners, funders and supporters, we can continue empowering communities to take ownership, build resilience, and create places where everyone belongs.

Lucy Knill, CEO of Anthropy, addressing guests

Our sincere thanks to Gala Dinner sponsors

Post Office logo
Thakeham logo
Wendling Beck logo

Supporters

  • John Stimpfig
  • Tim Brown
  • Glenwvyis Distillery who kindly gifted the delicious favours for each of our guests
  • Bicycle Blooms for their contributions to the table decorations

Lot and prize donors

Together we can support more communities across the UK

We cannot do this alone. More communities are turning to community ownership as a way to survive and thrive. Together, we can ensure these businesses continue to be there for the people who need them most.

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