A ‘GLITZY, glamorous’ black tie charity ball has raised ‘an incredible’ £22,000 for St Margaret’s Hospice.

The ball for 270 people, held in Taunton School, followed a three-course meal and also saw an auction of items given by local businesses and supporters, including tickets for an Exeter Chiefs rugby match, a Mulberry handbag, and a two-week all-inclusive Antigua holiday.

The proceeds of the evening, sponsored by Nuffield Health, Turnbull Infrastructure, and Utilities Ltd, could cover the cost of 300 specialist community nurse visits for patients being cared for at home, ensuring they receive the vital support they need, when they need it.

Some of the guests at the St Margaret's Hospice black tie charity ball.
Some of the guests at the St Margaret's Hospice black tie charity ball. ( )

Greenslade Taylor Hunt auctioneer Jamie Batt conducted the auction before guests danced to Haus Band, who delivered a fun performance of hits from across the decades.

St Margaret’s community partnerships manager Kerry Baillie thanked everybody who had supported event.

Ms Baillie said: “This year’s charity ball was a wonderful success not only in terms of the funds raised but the shared sense of purpose and community spirit that filled the room.

“The £22,000 generously donated by our supporters will enable us to continue to provide vital care and support to people across Somerset, whenever they need it, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everybody who made this a night to remember.”

Among the guests was Lynda Edwards, whose husband David was supported by St Margaret’s as he reached the end of his life, and who attended the ball with her son William.

St Margaret's Hospice raised £22,000 with the help of guests such as these at its charity ball.
St Margaret's Hospice raised £22,000 with the help of guests such as these at its charity ball. ( )

Mrs Edwards said: “This event was a bright star on the social calendar for Taunton.

“The food was absolutely delicious, and the venue was beautiful, it was like being at a Gatsbyesque party.

“It was wonderful to see all of the guests dressed to impress and see how much they appreciated the amazing work the hospice does, it was a great experience.”

The charity ball will be held again in 2025 as the hospice celebrates its 45th anniversary.

Anybody who wants to be involved, from sponsoring the ball, to donating items, or making an early booking to reserve their table, should email [email protected].