The Edinburgh charity dinner in May that was attended by Barack Obama managed to raise over £670,000 for Scottish charitable causes.
The event was organised by the Hunter Foundation, and the former US President held a speech in front of an audience of 1200, which included notable guests such as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, author J. K. Rowling and musician Annie Lennox. The event was delivered by Edinburgh-based events firm Lux Events.
A total of £570,000 was raised on the night, with a further £100,000 being allocated to charities chosen by the night’s performers in lieu of performance fees. The performers entertaining the guests were comedian Kevin Bridges and singers Annie Lennox and Sharleen Spiteri and the charities that benefited included Unicef, Maggie’s Centres and the Beatson Clinic.
Philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter, who had invited Mr Obama to the event, said the impressive amounts raised showed the “spirit of Scotland.
He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for charities across Scotland to have a great day out at the Kiltwalk, raise much-needed funds and get at least a 40% boost to their fundraising.”
“Personally, I’d like to thank everyone who helped raise these amazing funds by supporting the Obama dinner event – it clearly shows the spirit of Scotland; we care always for those most in need in our society and believe fundamentally in opportunity for all.”
Despite the flying visit – Mr Obama only stayed in Scotland for a day – the former President made the most of his time here by playing a round of golf at the Old Course in St Andrews.
He also showed an appreciation of Scottish weather by saying: “I promise you I will be back because, unless it is raining and blustery, I will not feel I have got the full Scottish experience.”
Mr Obama was presented with a kilt at the event but seemed unlikely to wear it any time soon. He said: “Unfortunately, I have concluded my legs are too thin to pull it off, but those (tartan) trousers I have seen you wear. I think they look pretty good. So I might try some.”
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