The battle between the Houses was witnessed by hundreds of spectators at Westminster College Gardens, with the House of Commons coming out on top for the sixth year running. A regular feature in the White Light calendar, the complete production solution specialist was proud to once again assist on such a special event which supports a worthy cause.
The cheering crowds not only received the chance to see the politicians battle it out but also watched rival city firms, industry giants, armed forces and fire crews flex their pulling power. Whilst the various teams took to the ropes, BBC Radio 5 Live's chief political correspondent John Pienaar compèred and the Tug of War Association adjudicated the matches. This is the third year running in which White Light has provided its services for the event.
Led by White Light's project manager Emily Woolnough, she states, "We were asked by Macmillan to provide the PA system for the event which was used by the compère, as well as rig speakers all across the venue to ensure that everyone in attendance could feel part of the action." Following the recent launch of its dedicated audio department, more clients than ever before are approaching White Light to supply sound equipment for their events. Lee Dennison, head of audio, states, "It's fantastic that we are able to support charities such as Macmillan who we not only have a long-standing relationship with but who are now turning to us for their audio requirements."
As the event took place entirely outdoors, this meant that White Light had to adapt to certain conditions. Emily states, "Hosting an event with electrical equipment outside is always going to present some problems. Therefore we decided to set up the day before, ensure that everything was rigged and ready to be put in place for the actual event and then stored the equipment on site overnight. Our main concern was not damaging the garden as we obviously had lots of cable which took up a considerable amount of space."
Rebecca Harfield, special events manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, remarks, "White Light was once again extremely adaptable and its dedication to ensure that everything was in place and prepared for the day ensured that the event was a huge success."
The funds raised through events like the Tug of War are more vital than ever in helping to ensure that no one faces cancer alone. Simon Phillips, director of fundraising at Macmillan Cancer Support, comments, "Macmillan's Parliamentary Tug of War has become a firm favourite in the Westminster social calendar pulling politicians together to put their weight behind a great cause. It's been fantastic - the competition tough, the laughter loud and the incredibly generous donations are going to go a long way in helping Macmillan make sure no one faces cancer alone".
Emily adds, "It's always a great experience working with Macmillan. Not only do they host events which allow us to draw on the full range of our production expertise, but every one of these has such charitable aims which White Light is delighted to support. We are really pleased with how well this year's Tug of War went and hope that this is a relationship which will continue to grow."
(Jim Evans)
