In a wide-ranging address to Nightingale Hammerson's literary lunch at Claridge's in central London, author and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig spoke about her childhood in Copenhagen and her book, Hitler's Canary, based on the true story of how her relatives helped to save Danish Jews from the Nazis.

Discussing her new book, Peas & Queues, she explained some of the amusing reasons behind polite behaviour, as well as the importance of good communication.

Ms Toksvig told the 280 guests that Nightingale Hammerson's work was "commendable. We absolutely must look after our older people."

A raffle with prizes including an Arsenal shirt signed by the team helped take the proceeds beyond £170,000 for the charity, which provides residential care for the elderly in north and south London homes.

Its chair, Harvey Rosenblatt, said the money was timely "as we continue with our plans to improve our accommodation both at Nightingale House and Hammerson House".