A MILLINGTON-based children’s charity brought a hint of the Emerald Isle to Cheshire this month with their Irish-themed summer ball.

More than 150 guests gathered in a marquee in the grounds of the charity’s 10 acre site on Saturday, July 7.

A drinks reception followed by an Irish buffet was held, which was finished off with a traditional toast with a glass of Irish Cream.

Compere Andy Ashworth kept guests entertained, guiding them through a raffle and auction which raised £8,000.

The charity’s newest patrons, Noddy and Suzan Holder, were on hand to draw the raffle and Noddy even treated the guests to a very unseasonal ‘It’s Christmas’.

Pippa Watton, events fundraiser, said: “This was our fourth annual summer ball and I’m pleased to say it was a huge success.

“It was such a lovely evening, we were blessed not only with the sunshine but also a room full of generous and fun guests.

“The amount raised is fantastic and will help us to provide once in a lifetime opportunities to so many very special children from all over our region.

“We really can’t thank our supporters enough, they are wonderful and their generosity really will change lives.”