Weizmann UK used the Wow factor to generate £550,000-plus from its gala dinner at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel towards the scientific endeavours at the Israeli institute.
Wow stands for "Wonders of Weizmann" and the importance of science education was the theme of keynote speaker Lord Puttnam. He told the 280 guests: "The Weizmann Institute is founded on the concept of excellence.
"Excellence of experience for those working there, excellence of output as a reward for perseverance and, most important of all, excellence of intent - because that is the quality that will, over time, sustain the soul and the vision of this increasingly vital institution."