GUESTS enjoyed a luxury three-course meal and live entertainment at a festive ball that has raised over £10,000 for charity.

Somerset Breast Cancer Now's Tinsel & Tiaras ball was held for the first time since 2019 at Batch Country House in Lympsham on Saturday, December 3.

Over 260 people attended the event, which raised £10,476.46 for the UK's largest breast cancer research charity.

Organiser Holly MacBeth said she was “blown away” by the fundraising total.

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: The ball was held at Batch Country House, Lympsham.The ball was held at Batch Country House, Lympsham. (Image: Holly MacBeth)

She said: “We were amazed at everyone’s generosity on the night, and we are very much in shock right now!

“To be back after a long three-year wait and see you all enjoying yourself – well, it just moved us all.

“Just to stand and soak in the atmosphere was amazing. I don’t think we laughed or cried so much for a long time that night!

“The hard work and nerves paid off, and we couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate our 25th anniversary since my mum Christine Piper founded this group.

“To continue her legacy on I know makes us all so very proud knowing her work is not forgotten and that we will always continue to fundraise and raise awareness for Breast Cancer Now as long as you want these events to happen.”

Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News: The ball marked the 25th anniversary of the formation of the Somerset Breast Cancer Now group.The ball marked the 25th anniversary of the formation of the Somerset Breast Cancer Now group. (Image: Holly MacBeth)

Entertainment was provided by The Riverbrew, a band that specialises in weddings, parties and corporate events.

Dave Englefield of Sedgemoor FM deejayed and helped Holly compère the evening. A casino was organised by the Weston Lions, which boosted the amount raised. 

Other fundraisers organised by the Somerset Breast Cancer Now group this year include two ladies' nights and a Shop for a Cure Christmas market.