Bellan House Venetian Masked Ball

The ball was organised by the Parents Association of Bellan House to raise funds for the school.

Jackie Counter, a Bellan House parent who did much of the organising, said that the evening was a huge success which raised more than £1,600.

“A handful of people couldn’t make it because of the weather but the feedback I’ve had from everyone who did come was fantastic,” said Mrs Counter.

“We had pre-dinner drinks and then a lovely three-course dinner, during which guests were mesmerised by Magic Matt the magician.

“Guests were then entertained by two opera singers from The Very Nice Production Company and this was followed by a 10-minute show from Magic Matt who revealed his skills as a pickpocket.

“Various watches and ties were given back to owners whose pockets he had picked during the tour around the tables earlier!”

A raffle and an auction provided the bulk of the funds raised for the evening.

Mrs Counter said a day’s pheasant shooting , a fun-filled day for eight at Mount Severn Activity Centre, VIP tickets for Osfest and two stunning Newgate clocks were some of the most successful lots in the auction.

“There are so many people to thank for the evening, especially those who were so generous with the auction prizes they donated,” said Mrs Counter.

“Without their generosity we would not have been able to raise the sum achieved.”