We held our annual charity ball on Friday 18 November, raising £50,000, profits will help improve the experience for children in hospital.

The event attracted over 200 attendees who enjoyed the Marvel, superhero theme, dedicated to our frontline staff who worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic.

On the night, we were joined by Redbridge’s Mayor, Thavathuray Jeyaranjan, Council Leader, Jas Athwal, as well as Councillor Tanweer Khan, and Epping District Councillor Darshan Sunger.

The evening included a raffle, main auction and over 25 silent auction prizes, including golf days, restaurant vouchers and signed memorabilia.

Guest Shaheda Arthur said: “We all thoroughly enjoyed the evening. It was an amazing night filled with lots of entertainment and lovely food. I’m already looking forward to next year’s ball.

“I’m proud to be supporting a wonderful charity that does so much for our local hospitals.”

Entertainment included fire breathers, stilt walkers and a sensational master illusion show provided by ‘Pastiche’, an event management and entertainment company. Batman, Spiderman, and Poison Ivy, along with other superheroes, kicked off the night’s dancing with a surprise flash mob.

Head of Fundraising, Lynda Head, said: “The last two years have been incredibly hard for charities across the country. Our balls have always been the highlight of the charity year and after a gap of two years due to the pandemic, we were apprehensive about how this year’s event would go, especially since we are all facing such an increase in costs.

“We couldn’t have been more delighted at the fabulous room of supporters who came out ready to dance the night away and help us raise money for our children’s services. Thank you to everyone who came, for your generous donations and for making our event the amazing success that it was.”

The funds raised at the ball, held at Orsett Hall, will go towards children’s play in our hospitals, including arts and crafts, distraction and bravery toys throughout the year, as well as the refurbishment of play areas and a Christmas party on Saturday 10 December.