AROUND 250 people enjoyed a winter wonderland ball and helped raise thousands of pounds for a childhood cancer charity.

Festive sparkle was the theme atGrace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust's event at the Bank House Hotel in Worcester, which raised £26,000 to go towards helping children with cancer and their families.

Visitors were greeted by an impressive stilt walking ice queen and king before having the chance to use the complementary glitter bar to glitz up their outfits.

Partygoers enjoyed a three course meal, fundraising games and beautiful music courtesy of the strings of the Capriccio Quartet.

A silent auction was held with lots including anything from rare film memorabilia to an exclusive private island stay in the Caribbean.

Sam Wilson, a local magician wowed the guests with Heart Radio’s Gemma Hill making a sparkling entrance after the meal.

She presided over a live auction which included gifted prizes from The James Dyson Foundation, Maserati, and West Midlands Safari Park.

Emma Williams, fundraising and operations manager, said: “It was amazing to have so many of our supporters attend our Winter Wonderland Ball. With a truly festive atmosphere, fun was had by all, and an amazing sum was raised from the evening.

"A massive thank you to everyone who attended and to all of the businesses who have supported in making the event a big success.”

Before guests took to the glitzy dancefloor, business owners who had signed up to the charity’s Corporate Challenge earlier in the year, were acknowledged and awarded for their efforts to fundraise in the workplace and community.

The sought after ‘Most Raised’ award went to SME Solicitors thanks to a raft of activities including a couple of bold head shaves.

To round off the evening, band The Institutions, leapt onto stage to entertain revellers, whilst guests also posed in a photobooth sponsored by Painters Law LLP.

Jen Kelly, Founder & CEO said: “Our Winter Wonderland Ball was a spectacular event, and it was wonderful to invite so many of our supporters to celebrate all that the Trust has achieved to date. We were privileged to be joined by several of the families that we have helped support. I would like to say a big thank you to all our event sponsors and to everyone who has supported us in any way.”

The money raised will enable the charity to continue providing financial, practical, and emotional support for families facing childhood cancer.

Funds generated will also help cover costs for the printing and distribution of diagnosis and awareness publications which are given out across the UK.

The event took place on Friday, December 1.