Superheroes helped an east London hospital raise £50,000 at its annual charity ball.
More than 200 guests attended the Marvel-themed evening held by King George and Queen’s Hospitals Charity on Friday (November 18) to honour the hard work of NHS staff throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
Batman, Spiderman, Poison Ivy and other superheroes, kicked off the night’s dancing with a surprise flash mob.
Entertainment at the charity ball included fire breathers, stilt walkers and a master illusion show provided by ‘Pastiche’, an event management and entertainment company.
Athlete Shaheda Arthur, a guest at the evening, said: “We all thoroughly enjoyed the evening.
"It was an amazing night filled with lots of entertainment and lovely food.
"I’m already looking forward to next year’s ball.
“I’m proud to be supporting a wonderful charity that does so much for our local hospitals.”
The money raised will be put towards improving the experience for children at the King George hospital in Ilford and Queen's hospital at Romford.
Guests included Redbridge’s Mayor Cllr Thavathuray Jeyaranjan, council leader Cllr Jas Athwal, as well as Cllr Tanweer Khan, and Epping Forest District councillor Darshan Sunger.
The evening included a raffle, main auction and over 25 silent auction prizes, including golf days, restaurant vouchers and signed memorabilia.
Head of fundraising Lynda Head said: “The last two years have been incredibly hard for charities across the country.
"Our balls have always been the highlight of the charity year and after a gap of two years due to the pandemic, we were apprehensive about how this year’s event would go, especially since we are all facing such an increase in costs.
“We couldn’t have been more delighted at the fabulous room of supporters who came out ready to dance the night away and help us raise money for our children’s services.
"Thank you to everyone who came, for your generous donations and for making our event the amazing success that it was.”
The funds raised at the ball, held at Orsett Hall, will go towards children’s play in our hospitals, including arts and crafts, distraction and bravery toys throughout the year, as well as the refurbishment of play areas and a Christmas party on Saturday, December 10.
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