Charity ball raises �9000 towards Essex village's ongoing projects

A CHARITY ball and dinner has raised nearly �9000 towards ongoing projects in a picturesque Essex village. Over 100 guests graced the annual Finchingfield Charity Ball and took part in a huge auction, bidding for prizes ranging from a Tuscany holiday to a

A CHARITY ball and dinner has raised nearly �9000 towards ongoing projects in a picturesque Essex village.

Over 100 guests graced the annual Finchingfield Charity Ball and took part in a huge auction, bidding for prizes ranging from a Tuscany holiday to a lesson in carriage driving.

All of the money raised will go towards a group of causes, namely the PTA minibus appeal, the scout group, the guildhall restoration project and the CREAMER fund, a charity which provides medical equipment for the local surgeries.

In a joint statement the organising committee consisting of Hayley March, Sally Parlane, Elaine Vaughan, Deborah Yates and Alan Yates said: "We are thrilled to have raised so much money for our local charities and would like to thank everyone for their generous support."

The evening was held at Spains Hall, Finchingfield, with the permission of owners Sir Timothy and Lady Ruggles-Brise. It was sponsored by The Fox Inn and The Three Tuns and �8,900 was raised.

After the auction, guests danced the night away to music provided by the swing band, In the Mood.