Des Walker Testimonial Dinner

Nottingham Forest legend Des Walker has supported the Danielle Beccan Memorial Trust by donating some of the proceeds of a testimonial dinner, which was held at the East Midlands Conference Centre on 9th November 2005.

He said: "It is an honour to be helping Danielle's family turn such a tragic event into a positive while at the same time improving the lives of Nottingham's youth

Gala Dinner at the Council House

A total of ?,000 was raised at a black tie gala dinner at the Council House in Nottingham for the official Launch of the Danielle Beccan Memorial Trust on 19th October 2005

More than 180 people attended, including Forest legend Des Walker, striker Jack Lester and Joseph Hall, winner of the BBC's Strictly Dance Fever show. Footballer Michael Johnson, who grew up in St Ann's and now plays for Derby County, also attended.

Danielle's mother, Paula Platt, said: "The last week has been a big relief. I've just been trying to get back to normal with my family and friends. "I was just overwhelmed by the evening. It was fantastic."

Nottingham Evening Post columnist and BBC East Midlands presenter Marie Ashby welcomed guests to the event. Her address was followed by speeches from Jane Sterk, chief executive of the Nottingham CVS, and Gordon Mitchell, chief executive of Nottingham City Council. Then Lisa Palmer, Danielle's cousin, said grace.

There was also a charity auction for signed Premier League football shirts, an autographed England cricket bat and other items.

*Picture supplied courtesy of the Nottingham Evening Post.