Experience With over 25 years of experience as an MC and host, I have been involved in a wide range of events, including sporting dinners, awards presentations, live sport activities, and charity functions. My background as a Director of Sport and Physical Education at a large school in the North West of England has equipped me with the skills to ensure your event is a success. I have turned my public speaking and management experience into a hobby in retirement, offering professionalism and organisational expertise. I am available to work at events including but not limited to: - Awards ceremonies - Live sporting events - Charity fundraisers - Conferences - Auctions - Corporate events - Children’s events - Wedding MC and toastmaster A good MC should keep the event moving, the speakers relaxed, the discussion interesting, and the audience involved. My past work with ex-students who have progressed into professional sport provides me with a unique insight into the world of sport. Sporting interviews and Q&A sessions with after-dinner speakers often reach new levels. I aim to relax and engage with organisers, speakers, and support crew, ensuring all parties are at ease and keeping guests and speakers on track. Previous After Dinner Speakers My expertise primarily lies in being an MC at sporting dinners and black-tie charity fundraiser dinners. I have worked with notable speakers such as: - Duncan MacKenzie - Howard Kendall - Mike Summerbee - Paul Fletcher - Frank Worthington - Howard Webb - Warren Hegg - Saj Mahmood - Chris Sutton - Lee Sharpe - John Abrahams - Mark Chilton - Dr Kevin Phillips - Gordon Taylor - James Beattie - Jeff Winter - Blackburn Rovers former players What You Will Receive The secret to any successful occasion is in the planning. With 35 years in education, I understand that no stone can be left unturned in preparing for a major event. This meticulous planning will apply to your function, and where possible, I will include a site visit prior to your event. Sporting Fundraiser & Charity Dinner Events If you require sporting memorabilia for your charity auctions, I can provide items with a reserve, allowing any profits on the night to be yours. Additionally, I can source a speaker package, which might include myself and a celebrity after-dinner speaker from the sporting world. Costs & Fees My costs are reflective of factors such as the necessity for overnight accommodation, travel, the duration of the event, and the work required on the day. In retirement, earning a full-time living is not my priority, and my rates are extremely competitive. Reduced rates apply for children's charities and cancer or hospice care events. Testimonials “Having worked numerous events with Mark Butler, I would highly recommend him as a welcoming & efficient compere and MC. From Gala & Charity events to Sporting Dinners and Fundraiser Club Nights, Mark is capable of making sure the event runs smoothly and is kept to time, in a manner that will make your event a success.” Warren Hegg, Lancashire CCC & England “Mark is a genuinely personable character who is able to capture the mood of the audience superbly. We sailed through our Q&A session in next to no time. My 35 minutes was no effort at all. Cannot recommend him highly enough.” James Beattie (Southampton, Everton & England) “Worked recently with Mark Butler as the MC at a fundraising evening for a local cricket club. Kept the evening moving expertly and conducted all fundraising in a professional and efficient manner. Would highly recommend him for any event.” Jeff Winter, After Dinner Speaker (Premier League referee) In summary, my professional life for over 25 years is now my hobby in retirement. I look forward to making your event a success.