Dame Shirley Bassey - 250,000 Reasons to Celebrate!

The Noah's Ark Appeal and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama are delighted to announce that they have been chosen to receive the £250,000 raised by Dame Shirley Bassey's star-studded auction held at Christie's last autumn.

The Welsh singing legend said a tearful goodbye to 50 of her magnificent gowns at the glittering auction last September, to celebrate 50 years in show-business and raise money for her two favourite charities and leave a lasting legacy in her home country.

Explaining her decision to support The Noah's Ark Appeal, Dame Shirley said 'When I first heard that Wales did not have its own children's Hospital I simply could not believe it. I am delighted to be able to contribute towards the first Children's Hospital and I truly feel that it is a most worthwhile cause. I would also like to congratulate the people of Wales for their magnificent generosity in raising over £6 million. It really shows the true spirit and determination of this great country.'

Suzanne Mainwaring, Director of The Noah's Ark Appeal said 'We are thrilled that Dame Shirley has given such marvellous support to help build the first Children's Hospital for Wales.'

Continuing her passion to help nurture home-grown talent, Dame Shirley's generous donation will enable the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama to continue providing first-class facilities to launch its students on the world stage. RWCMD Principal Edmond Fivet said "We have used this fantastic sum to create the Dame Shirley Bassey Vocal Scholarship. This annual award will go to a post-graduate student from Wales , providing them with an opportunity to develop their singing career, inspired by Dame Shirley's international success.

Dame Shirley will be visiting students at the College in October to sit on the judging panel for the Dame Shirley Bassey Scholarships and bestow the award to the winner, following a series of competitions that have taken place throughout the year. During her visit, the star will also be unveiling her 'Welsh Dragon' gown which she has donated to RWCMD before it goes on public display in the College's new foyer.