Sir Geoff Hurst marks 60th anniversary year of historic World Cup final hat-trick as Best of British Gatwick raises over £12,000 for charity
Sixty years after his World Cup final hat-trick cemented his place in football history, Sir Geoff Hurst was the headline guest at Best of British Gatwick, as the annual lunch raised more than £12,000 to support the Sussex Cricket Foundation's work across the community.
Held at the Hilton London Gatwick Airport on Friday (July 3), the event brought together businesses, sporting fans and supporters from across the region for an afternoon of networking, entertainment and fundraising, hosted by MC Aaron James.
Best known as the first player to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup final, Sir Geoff shared stories from England’s famous 1966 victory and reflected on the tournament’s lasting legacy.
He also shared his thoughts on the current World Cup, including England's match against Mexico, drawing on his own experience of playing in the 1970 tournament.
With first-hand insight into the challenges of playing at altitude, he offered guests a rare perspective that bridged past and present.
Sir Geoff was warmly received throughout, taking time to speak with guests individually and sharing memories with characteristic humility and humour.
Ryan Heal, managing director of Best of British Events, said: “Having England's only living World Cup winner with us during this year's World Cup was something truly special.
“Sixty years on from scoring his famous World Cup final hat-trick for England, Sir Geoff was as passionate as ever, entertaining a captivated audience with fantastic stories from one of the greatest careers in football history.
“We're also incredibly proud that the event raised more than £12,000 for the Sussex Cricket Foundation.
“Bringing together the business community, sporting legends and local charities is what Best of British is all about, and it's always rewarding to see the difference these events can make.”
Funds raised on the day will support the Sussex Cricket Foundation's work to change lives through the power of cricket across the community.
As the charitable arm of Sussex Cricket, the Foundation uses the game to deliver accessible opportunities that grow participation, tackle inequalities, improve health and wellbeing, and help people of all ages and abilities fulfil their potential.
Gary Wallis-Tayler, head of the Sussex Cricket Foundation, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to the Best of British team, sponsors, Sir Geoff Hurst, and to everyone who attended the event last week.
“The funds raised at the event will help support programmes run by the Foundation to continue growing the game and making cricket accessible to all across our communities in Sussex.
“Not only do events like this raise much needed funds to support Foundation activity, but it also raises much needed awareness of the Foundation and the work that it does to make a difference to people’s lives.
“I am extremely grateful to Ryan and the team for supporting the Foundation and look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.”
The event was made possible thanks to the support of its partners. IT Document Solutions was headline sponsor, supported by co-sponsors Bennett Oakley Solicitors, Webtrends Optimize and Handelsbanken, with media support from Platinum Business Magazine.
Best of British returns to Brighton on Thursday, November 12 for its annual Gala Dinner at The Grand, featuring Strictly Come Dancing judge and dance legend Anton Du Beke.
The evening will bring together the Sussex business community for an unforgettable night of entertainment, fundraising and celebration in support of Together Co, Brighton & Hove's leading social health and loneliness charity.
For more information and to book, please visit bestofbritish.org.uk.