What a night it was. Steve and Sue – our fantastic Hong Kong supporters (and adopters of one of our bears rescued in February, now called Bill) – had generously offered to support our Honey Money Days campaign by sponsoring a night of music and fun in China.

David Argyle, generous owner of Shamrock Bar in Chengdu offered his premises without hesitation, throwing in a free buffet and drink at the door so that literally every cent would go to the bears.

Steve and other band members of Village Dogs – founders Greg and Aidan, and singer extraordinaire, Martin Lau – rocked up onto the stage and packed a brilliant performance, filling the bar to the brim. Classic rock, country and ballads gave the audience their money's worth well into the wee small hours.

Our own Animals Asia team overseen by Jacky made sure that merchandise, raffle and auction were flowing and raising yet more necessary funds for the bears.

Here’s a pic of Jacky, holding his beloved “Transformer” (bought in 1985), which he has offered to auction off at a future event to raise money for the bears. Thank you Jacky for your kindness.

MCs Graham and Emily (aided by Mark) continued to keep the audience happily digging deeper into pockets – and here I have to say an extra thank you to long-time friends of Animals Asia in Chengdu, who gave so selflessly, as they always do. You know who you are.

And of course Jean, Susan, Toby and Eleanor, and photographer Momo who so generously gave of their time – and you lovely people who donated prizes - thank you.

Towards the end of the evening Martin saved a surprise and gave the performance of his life featuring two of my favourite singers – and giving Rod and Bruce a run for their money – with his own rendition of “Maggie May” and “Born to Run”. Priceless.

Steve and Sue you are legends (these guys even asked their wedding guests to donate to the moon bears in lieu of gifts) – thank you from Bill, Jasper (of course) and Rosie/Mani and the rest of the bears for topping up the honey pot and helping to give them – and more to come – the lives and freedom they love.

Everyone else out there who is also creating, devising, even considering, events and contributions to boost our Honey Money Days coffers for new bear dens, thank you too – from us all.