Sir Ranulph Fiennes was the guest speaker at a charity’s ladies' lunch which raised £29,000 for its brain injury rehabilitation work.

Queen Elizabeth's Foundation for Disabled People (QEF), based in Leatherhead Court, Woodlands Road, Leatherhead, welcomed the great adventurer, explorer and writer as the speaker at its 2014 autumn ladies lunch at Epsom Downs Racecourse.

QEF works with people with physical and learning disabilities and acquired brain injuries to develop skills to increase their independence.

Sir Ranulph entertained guests with tales of adventure from his school days, through to his time in the SAS, and then on towards his record-breaking polar and mountain escapades.

After his speech, he received a standing ovation and demands for an encore.

Sir Ranulph obliged and then revealed insights into his family’s history including their role in the Battle of Agincourt.

He then signed copies of his new book on the same topic, Agincourt.

Also speaking at the event were Nicki Freeman and her father Peter, who spoke of the importance of QEF’s work with people affected by brain injury.

One month before her 18th birthday, Nicki lost control of her car in heavy rain and collided with a tree.

She broke both her legs and her pelvis and went into a coma.

Now, three years after extensive operations and neuro-rehabilitation at QEF, she is studying performing arts.

In addition to the lunch and speakers there were stalls, a raffle and silent auction.

The event raised money for QEF’s Brain Injury Centre's Neuro Rehabilitation Services, based in Park Road, Banstead.

Sue Jacobs, chairman of the committee which organised the event, said: "My most heartfelt thanks go out to Sir Ranulph and Nicki and Peter Freeman and to everyone that came along and contributed so much for this essential cause.

"The funds raised will help to pay for nurses at the QEF Neuro Rehabilitation Services, who are crucial to the centre’s move towards an upgraded status that will enable it to help even more people."