Renowned celebrity and royal hair stylist, Nicky Clarke, preened and pampered Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s rescue hounds into belles of the ball as he prepared them for their red carpet debut at the charity’s star-studded extravaganza, the Collars & Coats Gala Ball, on Thursday 7 November.
Nicky and his partner, fashion designer Kelly Simpkin, passionate advocates of the world-renowned charity, worked their magic on some unruly manes as they transformed barking beauties Charlie the Cocker Spaniel and Maple the Saluki at the private and luxurious VIP room of Nicky’s famous London Mayfair salon.
Nicky said, “This is the biggest night of the year for Battersea dogs and I really wanted to help them dazzle as they enjoy walking the red carpet at the charity’s Gala Ball. We are huge supporters of Battersea and the amazing work the charity does in caring for all its special animals and it’s been a delight spending time pampering the Home’s rescue dogs.”
Kelly added, “What a great day at the salon. Not our usual customers, but Charlie and Maple were a real joy to pamper. They are the perfect models, and these gorgeous dogs will surely steal the show at the Collars & Coats Gala Ball.”
The spectacular fundraiser, now in its fifth year, will be held on Thursday 7 November at Battersea Park’s exclusive venue Evolution and brings together the biggest names from stage, screen, sport, and fashion to celebrate and support the charity’s work caring for lost and abandoned dogs and cats.
Hosted by Amanda Holden and Paul O’Grady OBE, the spectacular event will open with its unique welcome by the Home’s legendary doggy Guard of Honour, where the preened pooches will be eagerly lining the red carpet and representing Battersea’s 450 canine residents.
It costs over £18m to run Battersea each year, and with no government funding, the Collars & Coats Gala Ball is all about helping increase awareness of the important work the charity does each and every day of the year to offer a second chance in life to thousands of animals. Last year nearly 9,000 dogs and cats needed Battersea’s care and attention to help them find the best possible new homes.
For more information on the Collars & Coats Gala ball please visit http://www.collarsandcoats.org.uk/. For further information on Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and to pledge donations, please visit www.battersea.org.uk