St Clare Hospice raised more than £18,000 with its first-ever Shimmer Ball.

More than 100 guests attended the ball last month at Down Hall Hotel and Spa in Hatfield Heath.

Guests were treated to a three-course meal and entertainment, with live music from The Muggabees and magic tricks performed by Ben's Magic.

Dunmow Broadcast: The St Clare Hospice Shimmer BallThe St Clare Hospice Shimmer Ball (Image: St Clare Hospice)

Those attending then had the opportunity to bid in both a live and a silent auction, with items including sporting memorabilia, vintage wines and weekend breaks on offer.

Clinical nurse specialist Samantha Taylor was invited to be the guest speaker on the evening, giving guests an insight into her daily work routine and the difference the hospice can make to patients and their families during their last few days.

Samantha said: "When people ask me what I do for a living and I tell them that I am a community palliative care nurse with St Clare Hospice, quite often I get a response such as ‘I don’t know how to you do that job, isn’t it sad all the time?’.

"Although I understand this response, and of course, at times it is incredibly sad, my days are often filled with joy, hope, and witnessing the very best of love.

"I feel I am so lucky and privileged that I get to meet so many amazing and inspirational people every day, from all different walks of life, at different stages of their journey.

Events such as the Shimmer Ball allow St Clare Hospice to continue their work supporting patients and their families.

St Clare corporate relationship fundraiser Katy Woodgate, who organised the event, said: "Our Shimmer Ball was a hit with over £18,000 raised on the night which could pay for our community palliative care team for a week. 

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"It would cover the cost of the team to visit patients and their families at home and advise them on how to manage complex symptoms themselves.

"This will make a huge difference to the hospice meaning we can continue to care for patients and their families in our community.

"Fun was had by all on the night and we can’t thank our generous fundraisers enough!"