Walker Smith Way helped to raise funds for Help for Heroes at a glittering charity ball.
The local heroes event took place at The Pavilion at Chester Racecourse on Saturday 17 September and raised over £50,000 for national charity Help for Heroes and the region's own Mercian Regiment.
The 460 guests who dug deep for charity to honour heroic servicemen and women included a range of commercial businesses from Chester, Lord Lieutenant David Briggs, Judges, Majors and Colonels, and other dignitaries from across the county.
The ball got off to a spectacular start with a champagne reception and military drumming band, with the festivities continuing after the meal with a soul singer and jazz band before carriages transported guests away at 1am.
As well as a raffle and auction, guests tried their luck in Walker Smith Way's 'Be Dazzled' game, giving them the chance to win £1,000 worth of bespoke diamond-encrusted jewellery designed by local jeweller Claire Troughton. Runners' up prizes were donated by Olivia April, Cheshire Chocolates, Aquasiva, Chester Racecourse, Herbalife Skincare, Beautique beauty salon and Molton Brown.
Said Walker Smith Way's marketing manager, Holly Nelson: "It was a fantastic evening and we're delighted with the amount we raised. Over 400 people bought a jewellery box to try and win our fantastic prize, paying £10 a box, so we managed to raise more than £4,000 through 'Be Dazzled' alone." Lucky winner Jane Blackwell was "gobsmacked" with her sparkling prize and is meeting jeweller Claire for a personal consultation this week.
Added Walker Smith Way partner and ball committee member Janet Baines: "Recognising and supporting heroes who have dedicated themselves to serving our country is a cause close to many people's hearts and the generosity of our guests has been amazing. I'd particularly like to thank His Honour Judge D Elgan Edwards DL Hon. Recorder of Chester, who has chaired the ball committee, and the other committee members, for working so hard to make this such a great event."
