Downton Abbey Star Helps Old School’s Fund-Raising Efforts

Downton Abbey star Jim Carter has stepped in to help his former Harrogate school’s fundraising efforts by donating a prize for a forthcoming dinner dance.

The actor, who plays Carson the Butler in the hit ITV 1 costume drama and is a former Ashville College head boy, has donated a poster signed by all the cast – including Dame Maggie Smith and Hugh Bonneville – which will be auctioned off at the school’s Mistletoe Ball on Saturday, November 26.

The event, organised by the Friends of Ashville (the parent/teacher association) is being held at the Crown Hotel to raise money for the school and two local good causes – Chrissy’s Quest and Being Bel.

Friends of Ashville fundraising committee member Sara Buchan said: “Apart from having a really good night out, the aim of the ball is to raise money for the school and the two charities.

“In order to do this, we rely on the generosity of parents and local businesses to donate prizes for the auction. We are very grateful to Jim for sending us the Downton Abbey poster.

“Because the show has a huge following I’m sure this prize will be keenly fought over.”

Friends of Ashville committee member Alison Hartwell said: “In addition to raising money for Ashville we are also supporting two charities that are helping two local children, one with cerebral palsy and another who suffered from a serious spinal injury, and now has breathing and mobility problems.

“The money we raise will go to helping the pair of them lead as normal a life as possible.”

Photo Caption: Ashville College’s Downton Abbey Auction Prize. Friends of Ashville committee members Alison Hartwell (left) and Sara Buchan with the poster sent by actor Jim Carter OA.