Fabulous Fundraising Event

Christmas Ball

Christmas Ball

A wet and windy Saturday 8th December 2007 marked the culmination of many months of hard work leading up to the 16th Bilton Grange Christmas Ball. Armed with the most important document of the day, the seating plan, Karen Flowers and I set about the task of allocating the tables for the night. Our thanks go to the Ball Committee and parents who turned out that morning to lay up tables and assist with a multitude of last minute requests.

Lee Cloke and his team ensured that the lighting and decoration provided the perfect ambiance for the evening, with the Gallery twinkling under a row of enchanting fairy lights. Caroline Newman’s Christmas gifts hanging prominently from the ceiling set the scene in the Gallery for a magical Christmas Ball, with Santa making his guest appearance in the fireplace. Mrs. Kirk’s poinsettias and floral fireplaces, and the exquisite table decorations provided by Diana Mansell, along with a trio of balloons added the final touch of star quality. By 4.30pm the school had been transformed, all of the rooms were ready and it was home for a quick makeover & a hasty return to meet and greet the 300+ guests.

On arrival at the North Entrance, guests were met by Mr. MacIntyre, a Scottish Piper who has played at the Ball for many years and, once inside, a glass of bubbly was a welcoming aperitif. The children looked stunning and so grown up, with the excitement in their faces clearly visible. Realtime Photography were waiting to capture every moment and, if anyone is yet to view or order their prints, this can be done by visiting www.realtimephotography.co.uk using the code; bilton.

Our dashing Master of Ceremonies for the evening, David Greenwood, ensured the smooth running of all proceedings, seating guests for a lovely 3 course meal prepared and served by Andrew Parker’s team from the school kitchen which was enjoyed by all. But by 9.30 the children were anxious to partake of the evening entertainment. Parents had to dig deep in pockets for change to fund the children’s Tombola purchases and once completed, their disco in the Ravenscroft Hall was the place to be. Drew Thwaite became this year’s recipient of the Children’s Ticket Prize of a Day and Night Globe.

Then on to the serious fundraising – which this year will be going towards providing a recreational area for the children. Mr Tollit, with the close involvement of all the children, has been researching the most appropriate layout and equipment, and designs for this project can be seen on display in the Gallery. Bidding at the Silent Auction is always late to get going, with an exciting list of promises including a Pheasant Shoot, French and Polo Lessons, a Dinner Party cooked at your home, Rugby Tickets, a Signed Cricket Bat and much more, the guests had lots to consider, but by 12pm we had raised over £3,600. Again, our special thanks go to all the donors of the various promises and raffle prizes. Three guests, Mr David Bennett, Mr Alastair Robinson and Mr Paul Sambrook, suitably attired in elf hats, did a sterling job selling raffle tickets, raising £1,600, and Mr and Mrs Varley’s kind annual donation of £500 of NEXT Vouchers raised over £650 which, when drawn, was divided equally amongst five guests. However, before we can confirm the final total raised, we do need to receive all outstanding donations and Gift Aid Forms, which can be left in the Christmas Ball Tray.

I would like to thank you once again for all your tremendous support for such a fantastic school project, one which I know that all children will thoroughly enjoy. 

And so to next year, the Christmas Ball Committee is always looking for new parents to come on board. If anyone would like to get involved please could they contact me either by email: Annette.falkin@btconnect.com or by phone: 07710 770594.

Annette Falkingham – On behalf of the Christmas Ball Committee

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Tags: Boarders, Events, FoB, Pre-Prep, Prep