The BDCI held their Annual Festival Dinner on Friday 15th October at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London with over 1300 guests.

The evening was a night to remember. Not only did the BBC’s Chris Evans host the evening, but Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra with special guest star Alison Moyet and vocalists Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall had our guests up dancing and their feet tapping.

Chris Evans also ran the auction which had some fabulous prizes donated by various companies within the industry. A silent auction replaced the traditional raffle, which offered guests the chance to bid for some fantastic signed memorabilia from the world of sport, art and entertainment.

In addition, the Charity is immensely grateful to all the guests and the two sponsors of the ever popular car raffle – Dovecote Park and Interfood Technology. Chris Evans announced the winner of the car on the night itself.

The proceeds from the dinner will go to the Butchers and Drovers Charitable Institution, which provides invaluable financial support to people in the meat industry – both young and old.

Carsten Jakobsen, the Festival Chairman said: "I am delighted to have played a part in raising what I think will be a fine sum of money for the BDCI."

Click here to view highlights from the Annual Luncheon 2009

Click here to view highlights of the Annual Festival Dinner 2008