SIX hundred guests were treated to anecdotes from top television funny man, James Corden, at The Fed’s fundraising dinner.

The event on April 18, sponsored by Beaverbrooks and Concerva, took place at Lancashire County Cricket Ground’s ‘the Point’ and was part of the Manchester-based charity’s yearly fundraising activity.

Pledges of support received on the night will help the Fed meet its annual £1.2m fundraising target.

James, who was guest of honour, was quizzed on stage in a ‘question and answer’ style exchange by BBC radio presenter Paddy O’Connell.

The 33-year-old father-of-one, said: “I was only too happy to help a charity like the Fed which is helping those in need. My mum and sister are both social workers, so I’m well aware of the struggles that they face and the funds that they need. It’s great to go away from tonight knowing that we have all done a little bit to help.”

The BAFTA award winner, who was also named GQ’s Man of the Year in September, joins an illustrious list of names who have previously hosted the evening, including Bob Geldof and Joanna Lumley.

Guests were addressed by The Fed’s Chairman, Mark Adlestone and its CEO, Karen Phillips, and were shown a moving video highlighting the work of the charity in the wider community.

Karen Phillips, The Fed’s CEO, said: “We’ve had an incredible evening – the level of backing from our supporters has been humbling. Asking people to donate in the context of a recession can be tricky, but our patrons are determined to do their bit. Money raised here tonight will be put to excellent use helping vulnerable people in our region.”

A moving appeal was made by the Times journalist, Abigail Radnor, whose father was diagnosed with dementia aged just 52. After initially being supported by The Fed’s services in the community he has been looked after at Heathlands Village care home, part of The Fed, for the last five years.

Based at headquarters in Prestwich, The Fed provides support to around 1,000 people every month, living in the wider community, or at its care home, Heathlands Village.