NAWT Hertfordshire Charity Gala
On Friday 4th September, join us for a special Anniversary Gala as we celebrate 55 years of rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming, and look ahead to an even brighter future for homeless pets.
Hosted by distinguished British actor Peter Egan, this prestigious black-tie evening promises an unforgettable night of celebration, community, and impact.
Our Story
The National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) was founded in 1971 and the rehoming centre in Watford, Hertfordshire was the charity’s first; it’s where it all began.
For the past 55 years, we have rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed thousands of homeless and abandoned cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs.
Looking to the Future
Today, our Watford centre is on the verge of an exciting redevelopment. With modernised facilities, we can continue our vital work for the next 55 years and beyond, but we need your support to make it happen.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening
Taking place at The Grove Hotel, Watford, this exclusive event will welcome up to 380 guests for a night to remember, including:
- A three-course fine dining experience
- A high-value charity auction run by Paul Martin
- Live music (full line-up to be announced)
- Dancing late into the evening
You’ll be joining a passionate community of supporters, partners, and local businesses, all coming together to create a better future for homeless pets in Hertfordshire.
Make a Difference
Every ticket, bid, and donation will directly support the redevelopment of our Watford centre, helping us transform the lives of even more animals across Hertfordshire.
Save the Date
We would love for you to be part of this milestone celebration.
Join us on 4th September and help shape the next chapter of NAWT.
Tickets
There are two ticket types available:
- General Admission - £250 for an individual ticket
- Hosted Table - £2,500 for a table of 10 people, which includes additional complimentary wine
Event Details
- Location: Amber Suite, The Grove Hotel, Watford
- Date: Friday 4th September 2026
- Time: 19:30 - 00:30
Our Host for the Evening
Peter Egan
Hertfordshire Charity Gala Host
Peter Egan
Hertfordshire Charity Gala Host
Peter Egan is a distinguished British actor with a rich career spanning stage, screen, and animal welfare activism.
He is respected not only for his versatility and warmth as an actor, but also for the heartfelt sincerity he brings to his activism. His roles, from comedic to historical drama, coupled with decades of stage work, have made him a beloved figure in British acting. And in recent years, his dedication to animal welfare has become a defining aspect of his public persona, demonstrating how personal purpose and profession can powerfully align.
He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Letters by the University of Winchester in 2017 for his significant contributions to animal welfare.
Peter travels the world raising awareness for the many charities he is associated with.
He is an ambassador for over 20 charities worldwide and is proud to be an ambassador for The Jane Goodall Institute UK and UK ambassador for Animals Asia and a director of Animals Asia Foundation US inc.
In 2026 he was given The Jane Goodall Institute Award for Legacy of Kindness and Activism.
Paul Martin
Herts Charity Gala Auctioneer
Paul Martin
Herts Charity Gala Auctioneer
Paul Martin, best known as the engaging presenter of more than 1,500 episodes of the popular antiques BBC TV programme Flog It!, has become a familiar and much-loved face on British television. With his warm personality, deep knowledge of antiques, and genuine enthusiasm for uncovering hidden treasures, Paul has spent years bringing history and storytelling to life for audiences across the UK. Beyond the screen, he is passionate about his dogs and connecting with communities, supporting meaningful causes. Paul commented "With 40 years experience of buying and selling in the art world, I'll be doing what I do best, not in front of the camera, but the man behind the gavel, getting the top prices for a top charity!"
What to expect on the night
The evening will include
A warm welcome
An aperitif upon arrival and a personal welcome from the NAWT team and our guests, where you'll be able to mingle with fellow pet lovers whilst enjoying the beautiful surroundings of The Grove Hotel.
A three-course meal
Three courses of fine dining, including wine, with coffee and petit fours to finish.
Live entertainment
Unforgettable live performances from a selection of incredible acts - further details to be confirmed soon.
Silent and Live Auctions
There will be opportunities throughout the night to place silent bids on exclusive items and experiences to enjoy by yourself or with friends and family, whilst raising vital funds for the new Hertfordshire rescue centre.
This will be followed by a live auction where a handful of top ticket items will be presented by auctioneer, Paul Martin, offering you the chance to secure something wonderful for both you and the homeless pets whose lives you'll be changing with your bid.
Dancing
End the evening on the dance floor enjoying some live music (more details to follow).