Julian and Cat O’Dell’s fundraiser festival Catfest 2017 has proved to be an even bigger success than the previous year’s event, based on the key measures of enjoyment levels and money raised for charity.

Over 350 revellers descended upon the O’Dells’ garden in Hulcote, Milton Keynes, where they were treated to over ten hours of exceptional music, wonderful food and copious drink.

Warm weather enhanced the atmosphere and made the permanent smiles on the partygoers’ faces just that little bit wider.

Although industry trainer Julian and his wife, former estate agent Cat, were largely responsible for planning and hosting Catfest, they are first to acknowledge that it couldn’t happen without the help and time of many others – from friends and family to the singers, bands and suppliers, and the kind donors of auction lots and raffle prizes.

Some fascinating auction lots included a “money can’t buy” experience for Beatles fans and a superb original artwork by up and coming artist Ant Carver, which together raised over £6,000, thanks to the efforts of auctioneering dynamic duo Keith Butten and John Parrish, while the raffle and various other competitions and silent auction opportunities contributed well over £5,000.

The event’s generous supporters helped ensure costs were covered. Main sponsors included TM training & development, Rightmove, Beasley & Partners, and Land & New Homes Network, Reapit, Knightsbridge Estate Agents, Negotiator magazine, Property Industry Eye, Manning Stainton Estate Agents, Anthony Pepe & Co, Melior Clinics and Moneypenny.

The target was to beat last year’s total of £31,272.

The total raised for this year’s charity Action Against Cancer did indeed eclipse the previous figure. Julian and Cat are thrilled to confirm that Catfest 2017 raised a grand total to be passed over to the charity of £35,197.

Cat said: “As cancer patients, we all need hope. Research for cures or better treatment gives us that hope. We are therefore proud to support Action Against Cancer.”

Aside from the fundraising objective, Catfest aimed to celebrate the fact that against all odds, Cat – who stood down from her career in estate agency when re-diagnosed and told it was terminal – was given the news she was in remission last October.

Julian said: “We wanted to celebrate our miracle while helping raise money to ensure other people will be able to celebrate their own miracles in the future. The fact that it was the best party ever, while raising such a great total, makes all the hard work and sleepless nights worthwhile.

“And whisper it quietly … we are going to do it all again next year if anyone wants to get involved. Marvellous.”