On 13th October 2023, the West Midlands Conservatives hosted a spectacular Gala Dinner at Birmingham University, welcoming the acclaimed Lord Julian Fellowes of West Stafford as our guest of honour. The evening, held in the iconic Great Hall, was an unforgettable celebration of storytelling, camaraderie, and political momentum.
Lord Fellowes, renowned for his extraordinary career as an actor, novelist, screenwriter, and creator of the globally celebrated Downton Abbey, was joined by the ever-charismatic Sir Michael Fabricant MP. Together, they took the audience on a fascinating journey through Lord Fellowes' life and career in a delightful “This is Your Life” format. From his childhood in Cairo to his rise as one of Britain's most distinguished storytellers, the evening was brimming with insight, humour, and inspiration.
But the event was about more than entertainment. It marked the official launch of the West Midlands General Election campaigns, setting the stage for a pivotal year ahead. Over 100 membership forms were distributed to attendees, highlighting the energy and enthusiasm for our shared Conservative vision.
We were proud to unveil a new initiative to strengthen our Young Conservatives (YC) movement, pairing dynamic YC members with associations across the region. This project exemplifies our commitment to fostering the next generation of Conservative leaders and creating a more connected and engaged grassroots network.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees and supporters, the evening raised over £90,000—vital funds that will fuel our campaigns for the Mayoral, Parliamentary, and Police and Crime Commissioner elections.
The success of the evening underlines the strength of the Conservative movement in the West Midlands. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lord Fellowes, Sir Michael Fabricant, and all who attended for making this a truly memorable and impactful occasion. Together, we are building a brighter future for the region and the nation.
