FIRST Responder group chairman Sal Thompson has offered her heartfelt thanks to the people who supported a major fundraising ball.

The Courthouse Hotel in Knutsford hosted the first Heartbeat Ball staged by Knutsford Community First Responder Trust.

Guests were welcomed with Buck’s Fizz, and enjoyed a fun evening with comedian and compere Ted Robbins, of Phoenix Nights fame.

During the evening they were confounded by the close-up magic of Peter Turner, aka Fusion the Magician, and danced into the early hours to DJ Johnnie G.

The auction and raffle raised £4,000, which will be invested in the ongoing work of the charity in its First Responders team, Heartstart courses, defibrillator provision and heart screening of young people.

Filming took place during the event by Nine Lives Media for a BBC documentary to be shown later in the year, highlighting the struggle small charities have in raising vital funds.

Sal Thompson said: “I was delighted with the evening and the response from our supporters.

“Thank you to everyone, and we look forward to seeing you next year.”