SHAKEN but not stirred by the past 18 months, members of York's business community are channelling their inner 007 for an evening of celebration.

York Professionals is hosting a Casino Royale-themed dinner for a night of networking and fun which also toasts the organisation's 20th anniversary.

Launched in 2001, the membership organisation brings together professional services firms across the city with the aim of showcasing the local expertise in this key sector, which generates a GVA of £464million.

Its has grown to more than 100 members, including the marketing, creative and digital, business support, people, and property sectors alongside financial and legal services firms, and continues to support and champion the city’s professional services businesses.

Guests to the annual dinner will be invited to take to the roulette tables to raise funds for St Leonard’s Hospice, and hear from award-winning, motivational speaker Steven Robinson.

Tickets are on sale for the black tie event which is on Wednesday 20 October at York Racecourse, and is open to members and non-members. Starting at 6.30pm with a drinks reception, the evening includes a four-course dinner, live music and casino tables.

Guest speaker Steven Robinson came from a poor background and dealt with bullying through his educational life.

Then, a motocross accident at the age of 18 resulted in him losing his right arm.

He went on to make an astounding positive change, proving to everyone - including himself - that you are capable of overcoming obstacles and building your own future.

Steven who will be sharing his story at the annual dinner said the life-changing event turned everything upside downa dn 'shook me to the core'.

Through his resilience, he went on to rebuilt his life and craft a varied and challenging career.

Chair of York Professionals, Michelle Mook said, “As we move on from the difficulties of the past 18 months it is wonderful to have a face to face celebration to look forward to. We’ve all missed real live networking and it will be brilliant to be back in a room with the business community of York.

“We are excited to welcome Steven and delighted to be supporting St Leonard’s Hospice, which is our charity of the year. Our Casino Royale theme is set to get everyone shaken not stirred and presents a fantastic opportunity for professionals to network and celebrate with colleagues, contacts and clients. We hope you will join us!”

Michelle says guests can expect an exciting, fun evening, with casino tables complete with fake chips, to stimulate some healthy competitiveness.

The evening is sponsored by Benenden Health, IntelliG+Ence and YO1 Radio.

For tickets visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-yorkprofessionals-annual-dinner-2021-tickets-160760497977