Saint Michael's Hospice
Eddie Gray & Friends Sporting Dinner with Sir Alex Ferguson
Friday 27th June | Drinks Reception from 6:30pm
Venue: Bowcliffe Hall
**Event now sold out -please email supportercare@saintmichaelshospice.org or call (01423) 879 687 to make an enquiry**
Join us for an unforgettable evening of sporting excellence, stories, and celebration at the magnificent Bowcliffe Hall, as Leeds United legend Eddie Gray hosts a night to remember – joined by an iconic lineup of guests including Sir Alex Ferguson, Stuart Dallas, Roy Aitken, David Ellis, and Lottie McGuinness.
Guiding the evening’s conversations will be award-winning sports journalist and former BBC presenter Tanya Arnold, who will lead our all-star panel in a lively and inspiring discussion about their careers, challenges, and triumphs on and off the field.
Guests will begin the evening with a sparkling drinks reception in the spectacular Blackburn Wing, offering the chance to meet and mingle with sporting greats. This will be followed by a gourmet three-course dinner with wine in the elegant Ballroom, promising fine food, great company, and fascinating stories.
The night also includes an exciting raffle and auction, featuring unique memorabilia and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—perfect for sports fans and collectors alike.
This exclusive event is held in support of Saint Michael’s Hospice, and we are incredibly grateful to Bowcliffe Hall for their generous support in making this evening possible.
Tickets:
Individual – £150
Table of Ten – £1,400
Meet Eddie and Guests:
Eddie Gray
A true Leeds United legend, Eddie Gray is revered for his elegance on the ball and lifelong dedication to the club. Making his debut at just 17, Eddie dazzled fans throughout the Don Revie era, earning a reputation as one of the most skillful wingers of his generation. He was instrumental in Leeds’ successes during the late 1960s and 1970s, helping the club to win two First Division titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and reach multiple European finals. After retiring as a player, he continued to serve Leeds as a coach and manager, and remains a beloved figure at Elland Road. Eddie’s loyalty, humility, and deep footballing knowledge make him a cherished ambassador for the game—and we’re proud to have Eddie and his family as passionate supporters of hospice care, championing Saint Michael’s through his Sporting Dinner and many other heartfelt efforts.
Sir Alex Ferguson
One of the most iconic and successful managers in football history, Sir Alex led Manchester United from 1986 to 2013, guiding the club through an era of unmatched dominance. Under his leadership, United won 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups, 2 UEFA Champions League titles, and numerous other trophies, making him the most decorated manager in British football. Known for his tactical brilliance, fierce competitive spirit, and exceptional ability to nurture talent, Sir Alex’s legacy continues to inspire players and managers around the world. We are honoured to welcome him for this special evening.
Stuart Dallas
Originally from Cookstown, Northern Ireland, Stuart began his career at Coagh United while working as a joiner. He rose to prominence with over 50 international caps and nine standout years at Leeds United, where he was praised as “the best utility man in history” and voted Players’ Player of the Year three times. Stuart made the difficult decision to retire in 2024 at the age of 32 due to a serious knee injury sustained against Manchester City.
Lottie McGuinness
A proud Harrogate native, Lottie was inspired by the London 2012 Olympics to pursue competitive sport, beginning in swimming before switching to powerlifting at age 18. In just two years, she secured her first medal in Manchester, followed by a silver at the 2023 Paralympic World Cup. In 2024, she proudly represented Great Britain at the Paris Paralympics, finishing 4th. On missing the podium, she remarked, “I’m just getting started.”
Roy Aitken
A Celtic legend and natural leader, Roy made over 480 league appearances for the club, earning the nickname “The Bear” for his no-nonsense defending. He later played for Newcastle, St Mirren, and Aberdeen, and went on to manage Aberdeen to a Scottish League Cup victory. He’s also coached at Leeds United and Aston Villa. Now based in Harrogate, Roy continues to mentor young players at Leeds United.
Tanya Arnold
Tanya is a passionate advocate for women’s sport and one of the UK’s most respected sports presenters. Best known for her work with BBC Sport, she has covered Olympic Games, Rugby League World Cups, and hosted the Super League Show. In 2023, Tanya went freelance, and we’re thrilled she’s lending her voice and insight as our guest MC for the evening.
David Ellis
A former Rugby League player for Castleford Tigers, Doncaster RLFC, and Brisbane Broncos, David transitioned into a highly successful Rugby Union coaching career. As Head of Defence for the French national team (2000–2011), he helped secure five Six Nations titles, multiple Grand Slams, and a Rugby World Cup Final appearance. Now back in Yorkshire, David co-founded Hunslet Wolves in 2024 and works as a freelance defence consultant.
Bowcliffe Hall, Wetherby
Individual – £150, Table of Ten – £1,400
