Last night, This is Haslemere were honoured to be part of an exciting evening of mystery and deduction at Undershaw, the former home of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and now a specialist independent school. The evening was also livestreamed globally, allowing Sherlock Holmes fans and supporters from around the world to join in the celebration and support the cause.

The event marked two significant milestones: the 10-year anniversary of the world's largest Sherlock Holmes anthology and the 52nd publication produced by long-time benefactor MX Publishing. Held in the historic home where Conan Doyle penned many of his most beloved works, including The Hound Of The Baskervilles, the evening was a rare opportunity for fans, local philanthropists, and literary enthusiasts to come together in a setting steeped in storytelling history.

Sir Stephen Fry and Giles Brandreth were among the notable names who endorsed last night's very special fundraising evening, celebrating both its educational mission and the enduring legacy of the creator of Sherlock Holmes.

Guests who attended were treated to an inspiring evening. There was spellbinding storytelling by actor Luke Barton live on stage, along with mind-bending powers by leading deductionist Ben Cardall. His ability to memorise a rubik's cube left the audience speechless. Along with these great performances, there was a celebrity led auction to raise much-needed funds to pay for the installation of a sensory cube in Undershaw’s Arts and Media Centre. It is clear that the addition of this resource is an exciting development which will help Undershaw students to thrive. 

John Cameron from BBC TV's Bargain Hunt series did a fantastic job with the gavel. Auction lots included Wimbledon tickets, holidays in Mexico and a day in a luxury motor cruiser on the Solent. And thanks to the generosity of those attending and to MX Publishing, the evening raised over £15,000 towards Undershaw's latest project.

Emma West, Headteacher at Undershaw said: “We are immensely proud to have the privilege to educate the next generation in such a fascinating setting. At Undershaw, our unwavering belief in 'eliminating the Impossible', draws inspiration from the literary genius and former Undershaw resident Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, encapsulating our commitment to providing an education that transcends the challenges faced by our students.” 

If you would like to help Undershaw reach their fundraising target, you can make a donation here.