The 10th annual Lobster Charity Ball, organised by Ramside Estate, raised more than £33,600 for Stockton-based, Daisy Chain, which supports young people on the autistic spectrum, and their families.
The black tie event, held recently at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, was attended by more than 900 people, with guests enjoying an evening of live music, fine dining and fundraising, including a performance by soul sensation Jocelyn Brown.
Kirsty Barnfather, Events Co-ordinator at Daisy Chain, said: “It costs around £100 to fund one month of activities for a child with autism.
“The support of companies like Ramside Estates, and the success of events including the Lobster Charity Ball, is vital to ensuring we can continue to help families across the North East and we would like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved.”
Since its launch in 2006, the Lobster Charity Ball has raised more than £250,000 for the region’s good causes, including £50,000 for Daisy Chain in 2013 and 2014.
This year’s event, compared by comedian and TV entertainer Brendan Healy, featured live music from Jocelyn, as well as big band, Musicians Unlimited and pop and soul group, Black and White.
Guests at the event, held in a specially constructed marquee, were also treated to a fashion show, featuring clothes from top Durham boutiques Woven and Sorella, a Champagne and canapés reception and a gourmet, four-course, surf and turf feast, created by the award-winning chefs from The Rib Room Steakhouse and Grill.
John Adamson, owner of Hardwick Hall Hotel and Ramside Estates, said: “The Lobster Charity Ball was an amazing event, with guests enjoying complimentary drinks, fine food and a whole host of live entertainment.
“The atmosphere in the marquee was absolutely electric and I’m thrilled that we were able to boast the total amount raised for Daisy Chain to more than £83,000 over the past three years.”