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Charity ball raises over £200,000 for children's hospice

Mark Charnock, Clair Holdsworth, Ainsley Harriott.

Martin House hosted a Glitter Ball at Rudding Park to raise money for Martin House Children's Hospice.

The ball raised a total of £212,000 for the hospice charity.

The Glitter Ball, hosted by television presenter Duncan Wood, brought together nearly 600 guests for an evening of dinner, entertainment, and fundraising auctions.

Among those attending were celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott and Emmerdale actors Jeff Hordley, Zoe Henry and Mark Charnock.

Funds raised from the event will go towards supporting Martin House, which provides specialist care and support for children and young people with life-shortening conditions, as well as their families across Yorkshire.

Clair Holdsworth, chief executive of Martin House, said:

“It was a fantastic night – every year is bigger and better, and so many people told us this was the best Glitter Ball yet.

"We cannot thank our supporters and sponsors enough for their generosity.”

The auctions featured a range of exclusive prizes, including a round of golf with England football manager Sir Gareth Southgate and a private dining experience with Ainsley Harriott, which together helped raise more than £60,000.

The event was supported by headline sponsor HARIBO UK and Ireland, whose managing director John Hughes said:

“Our longstanding partnership with Martin House goes back 17 years, and over that time we've seen the incredible difference they make.

"We share their belief in creating special moments of happiness for children and families, and we're honoured to support their work.”

Other sponsors included KPP Architects, Ello Group, and Berry’s Jewellers, which donated a 1.25ct diamond necklace for the evening’s Ellie’s Gems prize draw.

Guests also enjoyed a three-course meal, fundraising games, and live music from The Phat Cats.

More information about Martin House and ways to support its work can be found at www.martinhouse.org.uk/donate.

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