Recently Accrington Stanley’s world-class hospitality venue at the Wham Stadium hosted a sold-out Mayor’s Charity Ball, organised by the Worshipful, the Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Terry Hurn. The generosity of local businesses and individuals of star auction prizes led to a fabulous grand total of £14,339.65 being raised, all of which goes to good causes.

Mayor Cllr Terry Hurn’s chosen causes for his year in office include Milly’s Smiles, a local group that works to support children newly diagnosed with a cancer-related illness; Jeffrey’s Battle with Battens Disease, a crowdfunded effort to help a little boy keep going despite his illness; and Accrington Stanley Women, who serve as an admirable source of female empowerment for all, with over 220 players.

The generous donations included 2x hospitality tickets to see Girls Aloud at the AO Arena; 2x hospitality tickets to see comedian Paul Smith at the AO Arena; 2x tickets for a VIP box at Old Trafford to watch Manchester United vs Burnley; and 8x tickets for an incredible private box experience in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand as Manchester United take on Everton, with a full hospitality package included, all donated by events company LS Music Studios, who were also a gold sponsor.

Eddy O’Brien, CEO of LS Music Studios, said: “As a company we are extremely passionate about giving back to the local community and the Mayor’s Ball presented a wonderful opportunity to raise money for some incredible charities.”

Among the generous bids on the night was the winner of the VIP private box experience for eight people at Old Trafford, which raised an incredible £1250 from Cindy Singleton of NORI – HR and Employment Law. Accrington Stanley Women donated a signed football amongst other items, which raised a fantastic £400.

Accrington Stanley Women also provided a guard of honour for the Mayor’s entrance, and first-team players were on hand to hand over their donated items. Entertainment included the Accrington Pipe Band, singer Sophie Stott, St Andrews School, and an Abba tribute band.

Mayor Cllr Terry Hurn commented, “I’m blown away by the amount of money we’ve raised for my chosen causes this year and I’ll be delighted to hand it over. The whole evening was incredible from start to finish, and I must thank our sponsors, everyone who donated raffle and auction prizes, and all bids and donations received on the evening.

“Huge thanks also go to the hospitality staff at Accrington Stanley, plus Scott Dawson Advertising who have worked tirelessly on organising the event for over six months, and donated their time and all the print work – everyone has worked so hard and I couldn’t have wished for anything more!”

You can see more photos and videos from the event here: www.facebook.com/AmazingAccrington