6.30pm to 11.30pm | Friday 16 October 2026 | The Shrubbery Hotel, Ilminster, TA19 9AR
Ferne Animal Sanctuary has announced that acclaimed actress Susan George will be a special guest at its upcoming Charity Gala, taking place at The Shrubbery Hotel in Ilminster on Friday 16 October 2026.
With just over a week to go until the event, the charity is encouraging supporters to secure their places before ticket sales close on 12 October 2026.
Susan George will join guests for a special Q&A during the evening, adding to a packed programme of entertainment, dining and fundraising in support of the hundreds of animals cared for by the Somerset charity.
Best known for starring alongside Dustin Hoffman in the 1971 film Straw Dogs and Peter Fonda in Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry, Susan has enjoyed a long career in film and television. Away from the screen, she is a passionate horsewoman who has spent more than 30 years breeding Arabian horses in the West Country.
Guests will also enjoy a two-course meal, welcome drink, live music from local singer Nelle Curtis, and the chance to dance the night away with DJ Baroness Boogie. The evening will also feature a talk from a member of the Medical Detection Dogs team, offering a fascinating insight into the life-changing work of these remarkable dogs.
There’s also plenty to get excited about in the Gala’s online silent auction, with a host of fantastic new prizes recently added for supporters to bid on.
Among the latest additions are a foldable mobility scooter, a case of wine from Louma, a smartwatch and a tablet. These join an impressive selection of prizes including champagne afternoon tea for two at The Ritz, overnight stays and a range of artwork.
Emma Purnell, Chief Executive Officer at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, says: “We’re absolutely delighted that Susan George will be joining us for this year’s Gala. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic evening, with some wonderful entertainment and prizes, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone.
“Our silent auction has some brilliant prizes up for grabs, and you don’t need to attend the Gala to get involved. We’d love as many people as possible to take a look and place a bid. Every contribution helps us continue caring for the animals who depend on Ferne, so whether you’re joining us on the night or supporting us from home, it really does make a difference.”
Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a non-government funded charity that has provided refuge and rehabilitation to animals for more than 85 years. The money raised through events such as the Charity Gala helps provide food, shelter, veterinary treatment and ongoing care for hundreds of animals.
Tickets cost £49 per person, including a welcome drink, two-course meal and evening’s entertainment. The event takes place at The Shrubbery Hotel, Ilminster, with guests arriving from 6.30pm. Ticket sales close on 12 October 2026.
To secure your place, visit:
www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org/product/fernes-charity-gala/
Supporters can also browse the silent auction and place their bids online at:
www.ferneanimalsanctuary.org/product/fernes-charity-gala/ttps://galabid.com/fernecharitygala