One of the UK's biggest LGBTQ+ fundraising events has raised a record-breaking £55,172.75 for HIV charity George House Trust.
Often described as Manchester's answer to the Met Gala, the annual Drag Ball returned for its 11th year in 2026, bringing hundreds of guests together at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel for an evening of drag performances, fundraising and celebration.
The event, which began in 2015, has grown into one of the largest LGBTQ+ events outside London, raising vital funds to support people living with HIV and helping George House Trust deliver its mission of creating a world where HIV holds no one back.
Guests were treated to performances from some of the North's best-known drag artists, including Shania Pain, Sam Buttery, Rosie Zinfandel, Pam Sandwich, Mandy Ann Ket, KY Kelly and Tequila Thirst, alongside dozens of other performers. The evening also featured a silent auction, with attendees contributing to the record fundraising total.
George House Trust was founded in 1985 at the height of the HIV and AIDS crisis, when treatment options were limited and stigma surrounding the condition was widespread. Today, advances in testing and treatment mean that most people living with HIV who are on effective medication can achieve an undetectable viral load, meaning the virus cannot be passed on to sexual partners. However, campaigners say stigma, discrimination and unequal access to support remain significant challenges.
Darren Knight, chief executive of George House Trust, said: "At George House Trust we've got a long history of working with businesses and the people of Manchester to stand up, be heard and raise money to support people living with HIV.
"Since 1985 we've stood together as a community to fight for the rights of people living with HIV and to reduce stigma and discrimination. What started here in Manchester has changed the way that HIV is understood and treated all over the world. Our work is not done.
"Our annual Drag Ball is a great way to get together, say thank you to our supporters and raise money, but we also take this opportunity to remind people that there is still more to do. Nationally there is a commitment to end new HIV transmissions and AIDS-related deaths by 2030, and we're here to create a world where HIV holds no one back."
The charity is encouraging anyone interested in supporting its work through fundraising, volunteering or awareness-raising to get involved ahead of World AIDS Day on 1 December.
George House Trust will lead a programme of events and fundraising activities in the run-up to the annual awareness day as it continues its efforts to challenge HIV stigma and support people living with the virus.
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