TeamVerrico triumph as grand ball launches charity

A glitzy ball with VIP guests launched Epworth-based cancer charity TeamVerrico, in memory of the late Anna Verrico.

The successful event at the Baths Hall, Scunthorpe, was supported by many Isle businesses and raised over £10,000. it is now set to be repeated as an annual event.

Over 260 guests enjoyed a champagne reception before listening to performances by Sam Young, a 14-year old musical prodigy from Birmingham, with his special composition set to Auden’s Stop the Clocks in memory of Anna, singer Peter Ward, a family friend for 30 years, and headliner Tom Kimmel, Anna’s favourite singer who had travelled from America. The night closed with a headline performance from Rita Payne, fresh from the release of their second album.

The charity’s purposes were conveyed in two films executed by Katie Dent and Cheryl Moorhouse. Hollywood actor Hugo Speer voiced over footage showing research at the University of Sheffield and the Royal Hammersmith hospital, led by Professors Reed and Stebbing. Beneficiaries of TeamVerrico funding demonstrated how funding received from the charity has already prolonged life. These films will shortly be on the TeamVerrico website.

Emily Farmer, chair of the ball committee, said: “Being asked to help TeamVerrico organise its launch event was an easy question to answer. Anna and Paul taught us all that no matter the odds, you must never give up.

“Trivial as they may be, we faced our own hurdles pulling together the evening. We are so proud to have been able to showcase TeamVerrico’s message on such a large stage and extend our thanks to everyone who has supported us along the way.”

American singer and songwriter Tom Kimmel stayed in Epworth this week and gave impromptu performances at The Old School Inn. He met Anna ten years ago and wrote her a song that closed her funeral in November.

Tom said: “I watched what was happening in Epworth while I was over in Nashville and I felt I was there with you all. It was a rare and beautiful thing to see an entire community rallying around a family in their time of need and I have been so touched to see all these good people turn out to show their love. I’ve had nearly a week in Epworth – it’s a beautiful place and I’ve been made so welcome. I’ll take good memories back with me.”

Paul Verrico said: “The evening was an amazing, emotional occasion. A celebration and a new beginning. We now have a platform to move forward with speed and gusto.”

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