Our annual fundraising ball held at the weekend has raised over £70,000 for Brian House Children’s Hospice.

More than 450 people attended the Blackpool Tower Ballroom on Saturday night for the Trinity Hospice Annual Fundraising Ball, which this year raised money for its dedicated children’s hospice, Brian House.

As well as a delicious three course meal served by Twelve Restaurant, guests were entertained throughout the evening, with auctions, raffles, popping balloons, and a range of performances from The Blue Pig Orchestra, The Brothers of Swing, the Blackpool Operatic Players, and even a fire eater and angle grinder. Sparks really were flying.

The host for the evening was no other than Nigel Taylor, multi-award winner in musical theatre, who ensured that guests were thoroughly engaged and entertained, donning a ringmaster suit and leading the ball.

Nigel’s right hand man for part of the night was Jack Leech, a 16-year-old, who attends Brian House on a regular basis. Jack was born with a rare condition called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, which means his muscles become weaker as he gets older, restricting what Jack can do on a day-to-day basis.

Jack bravely spoke in front of the hundreds of people at the event, saying how important Brian House is to him and his family: “Not only does Brian House offer me some rest, as well as fun with the friends I’ve made there, it also gives my mum the chance to relax.

“From great days out, to the brilliant food they provide, Brian House is like a home away from home for me – and I couldn’t imagine life without it.”

Jack received a standing ovation from the supporters – and then went on to enjoy the rest of night, from balloon popping to taking centre stage on the dance floor.

During the evening, guests were also asked to pledge to donate or raise £149.91, which is how much it costs for an hour of Brian House care – for every 24 people who pledged, a whole day would be paid for. Amazingly, almost 50 people stepped forward, which was fantastic to see.

The final amount raised on the evening was £72,000.

Head of Fundraising, Linzi Warburton, said: “The generosity shown at this year’s ball in aid of Brian House Children’s Hospice is astounding. We’re so grateful for each and every one of the guests who attended, as well as having their ongoing support.

“Although it seems like that amount of money is raised in just one night, the amount of work that goes into the event is huge – and wouldn’t be possible without the support of local businesses, individuals, and organisations donating their time, prizes, and helping whether they can.

“We also wanted to say a massive thank you to Jack for speaking on the night, as well as to the submariners of HMS Triumph, who volunteered before and during the event – and even managed to help us tidy up at the end of the night!”