A CHARITY ball held in High Easter has raised �12,000 to help children at Great Ormond Street Hospital renal unit.

The ball and auction was organised by Matt Fletcher, head of sixth form at Helena Romanes School, and his wife Beth who live in the village.

Eight sixth formers from the Dunmow school gave up their time to help the evening run smoothly in order to make as much money for Wellchild, a national charity for sick children who are awaiting kidney transplants, as possible.

Mrs Fletcher said: “The evening was a huge success with almost 200 people dressed up to the nines and eager to enjoy themselves to support the cause.

“A massive thanks go to Helena Romanes sixth formers Laura Cossey, Mel Jackson, Becky Lockwood, Gemma Brown, April Cowley, Max Turner, James Panton and also Kathryn Lodge and Carl Gilvray, who kindly gave up their Saturday night to help out at the ball. They worked so hard and were a credit to themselves.”

Magicians worked their magic and bidding took place for auction and raffle prizes donated largely by local businesses. Many tried their hand at the casino tables provided by ‘Against All Odds’ whilst others took to the floor and danced the night away.

“Our thanks go to all those that supported the ‘Always Hope’ charity ball and auction,” added Mrs Fletcher. “These included Maidens Barn, Archers Caterers, Steve Lester, DJ Watson, Lodges coaches and many other local businesses.”

The fundraising evening, held at Maidens Barn, rounded off the year following a local charity 25-mile bike ride in May which raised �1500.

Monies will go towards supporting children and their education while they endure long stays in hospital, and the care and support of ill children and their families alongside ongoing medical research into many illnesses.

“It has been overwhelming to experience the generosity and support of local people and the real sense of community within the local area,” Mrs Fletcher added.