This year’s Painswick Ball proved to be the organising committee’s most successful event so far, raising a record-breaking £14,500 for its nominated charities.
The ball, held at Broadham Fields, saw 330 guests raise money for Mindsong – a Gloucestershire-based charity reaching people with dementia through music. Parts of the charity auction were also dedicated to fundraising for Pancreatic Cancer UK.
The committee was delighted to finally bring the summer ball back after a covid-enforced break. The local community was also clearly pleased to see the event return, with tickets selling out in less than a minute and the event far surpassing its typical fundraising total of £6-8,000.
Local businesses were quick to support too, with Goddard’s Garage, The Oak, The Falcon, Unique Glass Solutions, Core Lighting and the Cheltenham branch of Martin & Co providing generous sponsorship and support.
The event offered attendees a drinks reception, three-course meal, and a chance to dance to music from local band Halflight, while donations and support from local businesses like Painswick Jewellery shop helped to drive a successful charity auction and raffle.
David Nottingham, who has chaired the Painswick Summer Ball committee for the last eight years, said: “The venetian masquerade theme of this year’s ball created a really spectacular display. We are delighted to have reinstated the ball after Covid. It feels particularly relevant and special to bring people together for a night of music and making memories when the funds will help Mindsong, who use music to recreate memories as part of their support.
“The local community has been so generous both in the build-up to the event and on the night itself. We’ve received numerous messages of appreciation for putting on a fantastic evening, and would like to thank everyone involved in making this year’s ball such a resounding success. We can’t wait to welcome people back for the next ball in 2024!”
David, who works for NFU Mutual, is being supported with a donation from the insurer’s £30,000 Community Champions Scheme, which supports causes close the heart of its people by donating to staff fundraising events and initiatives.
Karen Lawton, CEO of Mindsong, said: “The incredible generosity of everyone involved with Painswick Summer Ball 2022 has left us speechless. Any and all donations are welcomed, but to receive £9,910 is beyond expectations. Their kindness and support will mean that we will spend a lot more time reducing our waiting lists…basically saying to people with dementia, who have no time to waste, ‘yes’ instead of ‘when we can’. Thank you.”