Manchester's Village Business Association managed to tempt a very impressive 340-odd people to their fundraising dinner at the Jarvis Piccadilly. Looking like a great concrete platform shoe balancing precariously over Piccadilly Gardens, we weren't sure what to expect.

We were greeted and stickered by those S.L.U.T.S. who say "NO" (I'm sure we're never quite supposed to know what it is that we're disagreeing with) - the Salford Ladies made sure everyone had a smile on their face by the time we reached the bar. A slightly faded 70's grandeur with swathes of starcloth certainly gave the main hall a sense of occasion as Manchester's great and good sat down to a three course meal and plenty of wine. Entertainment was provided in the shape of local performers, with dancers, singers and local faces taking their turn to keep the throng amused.

Funds raised will be put to a variety of uses, with community arts groups and the city's ambitious plans for a Pride Games event in August all getting a welcome boost. A very impressive organisational feat!