Event organiser Rosalyn Leclercq, Senior Philanthropy Manager at St Helena Hospice, welcomed 228 people to the Ruby Ball held at Stoke by Nayland Resort, where they celebrated 40 years of hospice care in north east Essex.

Commenting on the success of the Ruby Ball, Mrs Leclercq said:

“The atmosphere was amazing with both the guests and the venue looking stunning, all in honour of those who have received care and support by St Helena Hospice in the past 40 years. 

“The highlight of the evening was the auction which was entertaining and at times tense and competitive, but thanks to the wonderful guests we raised enough to be able to purchase a much-needed piece of equipment that will benefit so many, a medical bath stool costing £4,694.50.

“Bids also covered the annual cost of £5,000 to maintain the Hospice garden, actually exceeding the cost to £7,000. The garden is a very special place which our patients, families and staff use for peace and tranquillity, and where some people chose to take their final breath.

“We could not have hosted our Ruby Ball without our fabulous sponsors, especially headline sponsor Matthew Douglas Ltd and premium sponsor The Barrel Inn in memory of Julie Warmington.

“Our sincere thanks go to them and to Attwells Solicitors, Ingleton Wood LLP, Pickering Group Ltd, Simon Hall MBE, Wenbar Ltd, Optimum Print, Nexus, Porsche Centre Colchester, Reeman Dansie, Thompson Smith and Puxon, DK Moriarty, MJB Avanti, Cahill Design Consultants, The DS Group, Pully's Party Pieces, and Deben Carpets & Flooring.

“St Helena hospice is such a special part of the community and it was wonderful to see so many people come together for a night of celebration for its 40th anniversary.”