An evening with Michael Vaughan OBE
by Alan Rowley, 27th January 2006

'the follow on', in association with Sheffield Children's Hospital, Sheffield International Venues, Sheffield City Council and Sheffield Hallam University, is pleased to give you an early opportunity to get tickets for a unique event in the city that you won't want to miss. You are invited to 'An Evening with Michael Vaughan', to raise money for Sheffield Children's Hospital, of which he is Patron.

The England captain, who led his team to a breathtaking Ashes victory over Australia last summer, will be at the Hall for An Evening with Michael Vaughan on Wednesday 8th February at 7.30pm – his only public appearance before he flies to India with the England team.

Organisers are promising a packed night of conversation, unique insights and a few surprises during the event, which opens this year’s Love2B in Sheffield celebrations. During the evening, he’ll answer audience questions and be interviewed about the triumphs and tensions of what has been called the greatest Test Series of all time.

Since that glorious summer, a lot has happened to him. He has been awarded an OBE, he injured his knee – and he’s become a father for the second time. He’ll talk about that, provide a glimpse into pre-match preparation, the secrets behind his band of heroes and how they’ve reacted to the public response. He’ll also explain why he’s patron of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity. 

The evening will end with Michael receiving an honorary doctorate from his local University – Sheffield Hallam. His honorary degree was announced live on Radio 4’s Test Match Special on the day he scored 166 runs at the nerve-tingling third Test match at Old Trafford – a game the Aussies saved on the last day.

Michael was unable to receive his degree during the University’s Graduation ceremonies, because he was in Pakistan with the England team.

Julie Harrington, Director of the Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity said: “As patron of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, Michael has shown tremendous commitment and enthusiasm.  He gave us exceptional support during his benefit year, donating a large proportion of the proceeds to the Children’s Hospital. He’s also a regular visitor to the Hospital and really brings a smile to the faces of the patients and staff there.

An event like this is the perfect way for us at the Children’s Hospital to say thanks to him – while we’ll also be raising vital funds. The team at Sheffield International Venues have been magnificent in helping us with this event and it will be a memorable evening”.

John Palmer, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at Sheffield Hallam University added:

“We were delighted when Michael accepted the Honorary Doctorate, which had been offered before the Ashes series began.  He’s a great ambassador for Sheffield and a true role model, who has shown what hard work, confidence and self-belief can achieve.

“We wanted to make a special effort to celebrate and commemorate Michael’s achievements with the people of the city and the county.  And we’re doubly pleased that the Children’s Hospital will benefit from the night.”

An Evening with Michael Vaughan takes place at the City Hall on Wednesday 8th February 2006 at 7:30pm. Tickets are available now, priced £10 (adults) and £5 (concessions).  Book early to avoid disappointment by contacting the City Hall Box Office on 01142 789 789.  Alternatively, you can purchased tickets from the City Hall website at www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk. Questions for Michael can be submitted by emailing the Sheffield Hallam University events team at events@shu.ac.uk.