Comedian Ricky Gervais was among among celebrities attending a high profile animal fundraiser. 

The After Life and The Office creator, who lives in Hampstead, attended a World Animal Day event in aid of Mayhew Animal Charity with his wife, author Jane Fallon. 

The gala, hosted by Hampstead-born Downton Abbey actor Peter Egan, included readings from Mayhew supporter and fellow Downton Abbey actor Lesley Nicol and Highlander star Beatie Edney, as well as a performance by soprano Annette Wardell.

The evening was supported by animal welfare champion and jewellery designer Angela Humphery, care home Signature at Highgate and Shoreditch and Peckham-based Georgian wine seller 80-20 Wines.

More than £15,000 was raised through a raffle and auction of virtual gifts to support the dogs, cats and communities helped by Mayhew, which is based in Trenmar Gardens, Kensal Green.

Bottom row (L-R): Comedian Ricky Gervais and Angela Humphery. Top row (L-R): Actors Beatie Edney, Peter Egan and Lesley Nicol, author Jane Fallon, Signature general manager Vicki Read, Mayhew chief exec Elvira Meucci-Lyons and Signature's Swapnil ShindeBottom row (L-R): Comedian Ricky Gervais and Angela Humphery. Top row (L-R): Actors Beatie Edney, Peter Egan and Lesley Nicol, author Jane Fallon, Signature general manager Vicki Read, Mayhew chief exec Elvira Meucci-Lyons and Signature's Swapnil Shinde (Image: Ben Stevens)

The money goes towards welcome packs for dogs and cats entering the shelter in London, the costs of running the charity’s not-for-profit veterinary clinic in Georgia for a day and contributions towards neutering and vaccination programmes.

Mayhew chief executive Elvira Meucci-Lyons said: “Mayhew has seen a huge surge in demand for its services this year, with more dogs and cats coming through our doors than ever before.

"The generosity of our donors and sponsors will make such a difference to dogs and cats in need, and we are incredibly grateful to feel such support in the room.”