THE local business world helped to raise a record £24,000 for St Richard’s Hospice at its annual Snowdrop Ball.

More than 350 guests enjoyed an evening of dining and dancing at Worcester's Sixways centre and gave generously to the live auction, led by Will Kerton of estate agents Knight Frank, and to a raffle.

Later in the evening, there was entertainment by live band Soul Trader and the party continued late into the night with dancing to the sounds of Midlands Leisure Disco and a casino for those that did not want to take to the dance floor.

Rachel Jones, fundraising manager at St Richard’s, said; “It was a fabulous night with everyone pulling out all the stops to look glamorous. The evening really kicked off the festive season with a bang and was a great finale for our 30th anniversary celebrations. We are very grateful to the sponsors Britannia Bennetts of Malvern and Western Power Distribution; and to all those who donated items for the auction and raffle. We are delighted with the great feedback received and guests are already reserving their tables for next year. Due to the generosity of our guests, this year’s ball was a record breaker, raising more money than previous years to help the hospice continue to care for patients at the end of their lives and support their loved ones through bereavement.”