Variety believe that all children should have an equal opportunity to reach their potential, regardless of their circumstances. All of their programmes are designed to help less fortunate children to achieve precisely that.

Steve was delighted to be asked by variety to host a Celebration dinner to recognise John Gibson's 50th Anniversary with the Evening Chronicle. He joined in the World Cup year of 1966. As you would expect for such a highly respected North East figure, there were many high profile people from entertainment, sport, print media and broadcast media. 

The Dinner was also attended by Jack Charlton OBE. When introduced by Steve, he received a standing ovation from the guests, as it is also fifty years since he won the World Cup with England.

Staged at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead, guests enjoyed a Red Carpet Champagne Reception upon arrival. Steve welcomed guests, before introducing Chairman Ray Crawford to say a few words about Variety. This was followed by a delicious dinner. 

After Dinner, John received his presentation from Variety Chief Barker Pamela Sinclair, Ray Crawford and Deborah Topping.

Steve did table interviews with many of the guests, they included;

• Steve Harper 

• Peter Beardsley

• Sir John Hall

• Malcolm MacDonald

• Bob Moncur

• Tommy Cassidy

• Roger Tames

Former World Boxing Champion Glenn McCrory, a close friend of John’s gave a moving tribute to his friend.

There was a full evening of entertainment from Daniel Burnett, Cole Page, Suzie Kennedy as Marilyn Monroe.

The evening concluded with John addressing guests. As usual, “Gibbo” wasn’t short of a stories or anecdotes to raise a smile!

Event photographs courtesy of Phil Holden - Contact: phil@tynemedia.com