Held at The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne, the event brought together supporters, sponsors and friends of the charity for an evening of entertainment and fundraising, all united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of local families.
The evening was expertly hosted by compère Mark Newey, who guided guests through a packed programme of entertainment and fundraising activities. Guests were welcomed with a spectacular dance performance from talented students at Eastbourne College before enjoying a delicious two-course dinner.
A highlight of the evening was an outstanding performance from Totally Elton, whose set had guests singing along and filling the dance floor. Later in the evening, DJ Dunk kept the celebrations going, while guests enjoyed capturing memories in the photo booth from Snappy Shot Events. The other beautiful photos were taken by NX Photo.
Fundraising was at the heart of the event, with guests enthusiastically supporting a live auction, silent auction, raffle and our new game 'Play your deal right'. The Trust would like to thank the many businesses and organisations who generously donated prizes, including The Swan Inn, Dallington; King John's Nursery; Harvey's Brewery; Paint N Go; Truffles Bakery; Sharnfold Farm; The English Soap Company; Three Old Birds; Mousehall Estate Distillery & Winery; Bignose Beardy Cidery; MSK Martial Arts; Mystery Guides; Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard; Phoenix Health Hub; Unity Spa Lewes; Focus Foundation; East Sussex National Hotel Resort; Group 1 Hailsham; Komedia Brighton; Seahorse Pub; The Grand Hotel; WPA; and Brighton Racecourse.
Every pound raised will help the Children's Respite Trust continue providing vital respite services, family support, specialist activities and opportunities for children with disabilities and their families, helping to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing.
Gavin Fisher, Chief Executive of Children's Respite Trust, said:
"We are absolutely delighted with the success of this year's Summer Soirée. It was wonderful to see so many people come together to support local families while enjoying such a fantastic evening. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, donated prizes, sponsored the event or volunteered. The funds raised will make a real difference to the children and families we support."
The Children's Respite Trust would also like to extend its sincere thanks to event sponsors Charles Cox Property Group, Archer & Partners, C J Thorne & Co Ltd, Summit Environment Ltd, Aspray Property Services, Kiley's Karpets and Eastbourne Electrical. Their support was instrumental in making the evening possible.
Finally we would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the Summer Soirée from guests to volunteers. Together, you have helped ensure that local families continue to receive the practical and emotional support they need throughout the year.
Feeling sad that it's over? Don't worry you can join us at our No Place Like Home Masquerade Ball on Saturday 14th November at the Winter Garden, Eastbourne.
