Comeback charity ball raises £66,000

We marked the tenth anniversary of our Teesside charity by raising £66,000 for worthy local causes at our annual ball, thanks to the support of our generous supporters.

Around 570 Teessiders attended the ball at Wynyard Hall’s Grand Marquee – the first time in almost two years that supporters of the Teesside institution had gathered together with last year’s Ball and many other fundraising events cancelled due to Covid.

Held in association with headline sponsors Plastic Furniture Company, guests were entertained by local band Storm, who lifted spirits and raised the roof during a live performance.

Lee Bramley, the charity’s Chair of Trustees, said: “Marking such a milestone in our fundraising journey meant that our charity ball was always going to be a special occasion – and it was all the more emotional after 18 months of Covid-related challenges. “For many, the ball marked their first big night out in many months, but any doubts we had that people would be ready to party were quickly removed when tickets for the event sold out within hours rather than the usual weeks.

“We enjoyed a fantastic evening of celebration and, even more importantly, fundraising. What’s more, every penny will stay right here on Teesside.”

A fantastic £66,000 was raised for at the black tie event, with all monies going directly to help struggling Teesside families and local worthy causes.

The guests – including a Who’s Who of local businesses – were as supportive as ever as they gave generously in the event’s auctions, which raised a staggering £30,000.

Prizes on the night included a week-long stay in a Windermere cottage, a diamond pendant donated by Ramsdens, private dining for ten at Pinchinthorpe Hall and a Sister Act experience – four flights to London with hotel accommodation and tickets to see the West End show.

Other fundraising items were donated by Julie Foster Walker Art, Jayne Gordon, Porsche Centre Teesside, Inn Hospitality Group, the Build Directory, Middlesbrough FC, Bulkhaul, Chris Booth, Erimus Insurance Brokers, Michael Cartwright Photography, Frances and Patrick Connolly, Middlesbrough Town Hall, The Zetland, Cornerstone Business Solutions, Kate Fearnley and Ecco Finishing Supplies.

Summarising the event, Lee said: “The last 18 months have proved a particularly challenging time for our charity, but the generous response of our supporters meant we were able to not only survive but to thrive and continue to support our fellow Teessiders in need – especially those directly impacted by the pandemic.

Co-Sponsor for the event was Active Chartered Financial Planners, Racz Group were Wine Sponsors, Endeavour Partnership were Programme Sponsors, while Drinks Reception Sponsors were Industrial Technology Systems (ITS).