Celebrities turn out for the Battersea Collars and Coats Gala Ball

Celebrities joined rescue dogs on the Red Carpet in support of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s major fundraiser, the annual Collars & Coats Gala Ball which was held on Friday.

Celebrities joined rescue dogs on the Red Carpet in support of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s major fundraiser, the annual Collars & Coats Gala Ball which was held on Friday.

Taking place at Battersea Evolution, stars of stage and screen united for an amazing cause in the presence of the Home’s President TRH Prince and Princess Michael of Kent (pictured, right). Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s legendary Guard of Honour, made up of dozens of Battersea dogs, stole the show as they lined the Red Carpet entrance, winning the hearts and affections of the attending guests.

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel-Horwood said, “I think the event is spectacular almost as spectacular as Battersea itself. I thought the dogs were fantastic and so well looked after. I want them all to find homes.”

Singer and presenter Peter Andre, entertained guests with his warm charm and humour as host for the evening. The event’s top-billing performances included Lulu who wowed revellers with some of her most memorable hits over the years. The hypnotic Escala also indulged guests with a breath-taking performance, as the event’s surpise act of the night.

Peter Andre (pictured, below, right) said, “I’m so proud to have hosted Battersea’s Collars & Coats Gala Ball. Battersea is an amazing charity which does incredible work to look after the animals which come into its care, helping them have happy futures in loving new homes. Walking up the red carpet past the Battersea dogs was an unforgettable experience and I hope this evening will show why this special charity needs our continued support.”

Guests attending the Collars & Coats Gala Ball included British actresses Prunella Scales, Rosamund Hanson, Preeya Kalidas and Laila Rouass; television personalities Louie Spence, Donna Air, Tasmin Lucia Khan and Kate Walsh; Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel-Horwood and dancer Vincent Simone; Made in Chelsea personality Cheska Hull; bespoke fashion designer Daniel Hanson; fashionista Brix Smith Start and Hilary Alexander; celebrity hairdresser Nicky Clarke; and celebrity chef couple Giancarlo and Katie Caldesi.

Speaking at the Event, CEO of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Claire Horton, said, “Battersea is now in its 150th year of caring for lost, unwanted and abandoned animals and our Collars & Coats Gala Ball really shows why our charity has earnt a place in the heart of the nation. Watching our fantastic Battersea dogs greet the likes of Peter Andre, Craig Revel Horwood and Esther Rantzen on the red carpet was a truly unmissable sight. It’s thanks to the kindness and generosity of our supporters that we are able to give these dogs, and thousands of others a much needed second chance in life.”

The Collars & Coats Gala Ball is Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s most prestigious fundraising event of the year. The much loved animal welfare charity depends on the generosity of its supporters to continue its vital work caring for homeless dogs and cats.

Actress and presenter Donna Air added, “It’s such a fun event and I’m really excited to be here. I’ve been familiar with Battersea for years and I am so excited to learn more about their work. The dogs on the red carpet were amazing and so beautiful.”

For further information on Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and to pledge donations, please visit www.battersea.org.uk or call 020 7627 9309.