Autumn Ball raises £14,000!

After months of organising, we recently held our very first charity ball at the Manchester Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel.

The event hosted by BBC Radio Manchester presenter Becky Want saw party goers dust off their best tuxes and dresses to enjoy a fabulous evening of good food, drink and entertainment.

The Autumnal-themed ball was a glittering affair from the champagne reception right through to the busting-out of some energetic dance moves at the end of the evening. A lovely three-course meal was served in between and plenty of wine ensured everyone was in high spirits.

There was even a magician and a nail-biting round of ‘Heads or Tails’, the prize being a two night stay with dinner at the hotel courtesy of Marriott. Emmerdale actor Chris Bisson was also in attendance, adding some celebrity sparkle to the event.

However, it was the auction which really stole the show, with a number of fantastic prizes up-for-grabs including a coveted trip to Las Vegas, football memorabilia and hospitality, an original framed pastel by local artist Bob Richardson and a Nirvana Spa experience.

Overall, the whole evening was a huge success, with Stockdales raising £14,000 to help secure the future of the charity and the lives it helps to improve.

Natalie James, fundraising manager at Stockdales said,

“We really couldn’t have hoped for a better event. Everyone really enjoyed themselves and we managed to raise a fantastic amount too. I’d like to say a massive thanks to everyone who made this possible including our sponsors, guests and those who helped to organise the event, it’s very much appreciated. It won’t be long until we start planning next year’s big 60th celebrations!”

Link to photos of the evening to follow!

(Above photo l-r: Emma Morris, chief executive; Peter Wall, chairman of the trustees; Natalie James, fundraising manager; Nigel Mather, trustee)

Sponsors and contributors

1st Serve Experiences

Travel Counsellors

Regatta Ltd

One Marketing Communications

Mr and Mrs Ridehalgh

Rembuild Ltd

David and Tracy Moores

Laurie Cleary

Jim Robinson

Nirvana Health Spa

Jellie Studios

Manchester City in the Community

Manchester United Foundation

Unit One Entertainment

Simply Health

Nigel and Sharon Mather