Lord Smith of Finsbury prompted dramatic scenes when he collapsed at last night’s Grosvenor House Music Industry Trusts dinner honouring Gary Barlow.
The former Labour Culture Secretary had a front-table seat at the dinner, attended by Sir Elton John and other guests.
As Paul Gambaccini began the tributes to the Take That star, Smith, 61, rose from his feet ashen-faced. He walked a few yards before slumping to the floor. Gasps were heard from nearby guests, including an X Factor table attended by judges Nicole Scherzinger and Tulisa.
A paramedic rushed to attend him but Gambaccini, unaware of the seriousness of the situation, continued to reel off a list of Beatles chart achievements from the stage, saying they were feats “worth falling down for”.
To the relief of all, Lord Smith rose gingerly to his feet after a minute on the floor and was helped to the exit by Grosvenor staff.Lord Smith’s office told me this morning: “He had a stomach upset last night but he is all fine now. He thanks everyone for their concern.”
