Tommy Docherty was the headline speaker at the Croydon Hilton Hotel for the Crystal Palace February Sporting Dinner held on Wednesday night this week.

The event was kindly sponsored by Custom who are tremendous supporters of the club and added fantastic enhancements to a hugely popular evening.

The evening started with reception drinks before guests were seated in the Wetherall Suite for a sumptuous 3 course meal.

The Silent Auction proved to be as popular as ever with guests bidding on items such as a signed, commemorative piece to celebrate Clinton Morrison's 100th goal for the Eagles and further framed items including Jack Charlton and Jimmy Greaves in action.

After the meal, items such as a Pele signed boot and a Ronaldo signed shirt were auctioned by David Jensen, host for the evening and friend of the club, to raise funds for the CPFC Youth Academy.

David then introduced the legendary ex Manchester United and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty who rose to huge applause. 'The Doc' treated the audience to amusing tales from his playing and management days and answered questions from the floor on football past and present and expressed some rather interesting views on current United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Tommy was followed on stage by top comedian Tony Jo, who had the guests, that included assistant manager Mick Jones and first team coach Keith Curle, in stitches with his unique style of comedy and impressions.

It was easy to see how Tony has won the 'After Dinner Speaker of the Year' award on three separate occasions and he closed the night to huge applause.

Further funds for the Academy were raised by a raffle with more excellent prizes available, such as a day out at Lingfield Racecourse, four places in the Directors' Box and an Executive Box at Selhurst Park for 10 guests.

We would like to thank Courage, Bletchingly Golf Club, Lingfield Park Race Course, seetickets and G P Design for donating prizes and the Croydon Hilton for their support in hosting the event.

*The next Crystal Palace FC Sporting Dinner, 'Addicted', will be held on 22nd May 2008 in the Marquee on the Pitch at Selhurst Park.

This truly fantastic event will be hosted by Ian Irving and will feature from the world of Football - Paul Merson who will speak openly and honestly about his career and addictions, supported by impressionist/comedian Kevin Connelly who will have you and your guests in fits of laughter as he mocks the rich and famous.

Like Merson, Connelly, star of the BBC sketch show 'Dead Ringers', is one not to be missed. Tables are now on sale for this fantastic opportunity to entertain your best customers,staff, family and friends at just £699+Vat for a table of ten.

Please call 0208 768 6049 or email: marketing@cpfc to book your tables at this high quality end of season event.