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News & Blog

Mission accomplished: St Columba’s Hospice Care raises £152,500 at Bond-themed black-tie dinner

Posted: 11th November 2025

St Columba’s Hospice Care has announced a remarkable fundraising total of £152,500 from its Bond-themed black-tie dinner, held at the stunning Archerfield Waterfront on Friday 7 November.

Following the success of February’s Vegas-inspired event, the evening once again combined style, entertainment and generosity in equal measure. Guests enjoyed a night of fine dining, high-energy performances and heartfelt moments – all in support of the Hospice’s mission to provide expert, compassionate care to people and families across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

The event opened in true cinematic style with singer and impressionist Jess Robinson delivering powerful renditions of classic Bond themes as the evening’s host. Later, the much-loved Grant Stott took to the stage as auctioneer, bringing warmth and humour to a lively bidding session that saw guests compete enthusiastically for an array of spectacular prizes. Standout lots included an exclusive golf experience at Baltusrol and Somerset Hills in New Jersey, a bespoke Ultimate Bond Experience in London, Dinner in your home with Pop Catering and de Burgh Wine Merchants and tickets to see Lewis Capaldi perform at Hyde Park with luxury accommodation at the InterContinental Park Lane.

Later in the night, BLEEKER took to the stage and had everyone on their feet, filling the dancefloor well into the small hours with a set that kept the energy sky-high. Among those attending were Holly and Emily Simpson-Smith, who once again supported the Hospice in memory of their mum, Maxine. Holly’s moving words about her family’s experience reminded guests of the vital difference their generosity makes to patients and loved ones receiving hospice care.

Jon Heggie, Director of Income Generation at St Columba’s Hospice Care, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled by the incredible support shown at our Bond dinner. To raise £152,500 in one evening is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the kindness of our community.

“The money raised will go towards ensuring we can continue to provide expert, person-centred care to those who need it most. With around 80% of our funding needing to be raised each year through the generosity of the public, events like this are vital – it truly feels like a mission accomplished.”

The evening’s generosity will enable St Columba’s Hospice Care to deliver essential palliative and end-of-life care across Edinburgh and the Lothians, ensuring patients and families receive comfort, dignity and support when it matters most. As the majority of the Hospice’s funding comes from public donations, events like this are crucial to sustaining its life-changing work.

Business Comment

Business Comment is the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s bi-monthly magazine. It provides insight on Edinburgh’s vibrant business community, with features on the city’s key sectors, interviews with leading figures and news on new business developments in the capital.
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