AROUND guests were treated to a West End themed evening of food, fundraising and entertainment at the Hilton Brighton Metropole.

The annual Midsummer charity Ball - sponsored by Skerritts - supported the DM Thomas

Foundation for Young People along with Action Medical Research, Chailey Heritage

Foundation, Chestnut Tree House and The Starr Trust.

The Ball raised an incredible £100,000.

The event is well-known for its Strictly Come Dancing-style dance competition but this year featured a musical theme with six local personalities take part in the charity challenge which was organised by entertainment company E3.

Those challenged to entertain were Antony Nelson representing Action Medical Research, Keris Lea for Chailey Heritage Foundation, Marcella Whittingdale and Matt Turner on behalf of Chestnut Tree House and finally Robin Cousins and Robb Starr for The Starr Trust.

They were supported by dancers from Brighton Academy who joined the amateurs for a

Musical-style piece in front of three judges.

Anthony Nelson was crowned as the 2017

winner with his Gene Kelly inspired Singing in the Rain routine and between them the six

entertainers raised over £10,720 for all the fabulous charitable causes.

Compered by David Hill from E3, Midsummer Ball guests were treated to a sumptuous

banquet provided by Hilton Brighton Metropole, fine wines, as well as an opportunity to enjoy the famous indoor dodgems, sponsored by Cardens Accountants.

Money was raised through a variety of fundraising initiatives including a game of heads and tails, a charity auction and wish trees.

Each year a local charity benefits from a foundation grant following the ball.

This ear this was extended to four local charities who all worked on the ball committee to

organise the event.

Sascha Koehler, general manager of the Hilton Brighton Metropole, said: “I would like to

thank everyone who attended for their continued support for this charity event which

we are very proud to host.”