Rochdale Victim Support and Witness Service charity ball

Organisers Dave Logan and Nuala Chapman

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Over one hundred people gathered for an evening of glitz and glam at the Norton Grange Hotel tonight (Saturday 16 October 2010) for the Rochdale Victim Support and Witness Service’s first ever charity ball and auction.

Guests dressed to impress for a champagne reception, a three course meal, a magician and an auction.

The aim of the event was to raise the Rochdale Victim Support and Witness Service’s profile as well as funds to keep the volunteer led charity organisation running.

Many volunteers were in attendance, as were local councillors, business representatives, Rotarians, JP Jane Gartside and Chief Inspector Nadeem Mir.

The event was organised by volunteer Nuala Chapman, a witness service volunteer.

Despite the months of hard work the pair insisted it was worth it. Ms Chapman said: “I am happy with the final result, everyone is enjoying themselves and I am pleased it is a good night.

“I don’t think people were aware of the volunteers at the court but I think tonight has brought the charity to the forefront and people are aware of what we do.

“We want people to know about the service and it is nice to see so many people here to support us.”

Following their meal guests were able to take part in the charity auction where prizes included an office package consisting of a laptop, wireless printer and other office gadgets, a paint balling trip for eight people, golf lessons, a signed cricket bat and tickets and a hospitality day at Rochdale AFC.

Ms Chapman added: “We are hoping to raise around £3,000 to put back into the charity.”

Sam Higginbottom from Victim Support said: “This is the first event of this kind in Rochdale but we hope to make a success of the night and raise money for the charity and then look at doing this again.

“Hopefully this will set the benchmark.

“It has been a fantastic evening and thanks must go to Nuala and David who have done so well in organising the event.

“The attendance and support we have received is fantastic.”  

UPDATE: £4,000 was raised from the charity ball and auction.