THE organisers of a charity ball that proved to be so successful last year on its debut have already started preparations for this summer’s event.

It was an impromptu dress purchase that resulted in the launch of the event which eventually raised more than £9,000 for charity.

Catherine Marshall picked up a bargain, but did not have anywhere to wear it, so decided to rope in friends Nina Fryer and David Conway to organise the Summer Ball.

As the idea began to grow, the Teesside trio decided to turn it into a fundraising ball for Barnardo's North-East and the night proved a success with £9,120 raised for the charity.

Fundraiser Nina Fryer said: “Our first achievement has been increasing guest number by just over 50 per cent and as such, we have sold the event to capacity at 230.

“Whilst the preparation is coming along nicely and it's comforting to know that so many people believe in the Summer Ball and want to help us to fund raise for Barnardo's SECOS (Sexual Exploitation of Children On the Streets project), we do require donations for prizes and auction.

“We are now looking for more sponsors to come on board, currently we have two main sponsors, Cleveland Centre and Altitude Business Consultancy, and we are also receiving support again from Newcastle Clinic.

“The dream is to secure a holiday for two to be used as our big money grabber. We would be charging £20 for a seat on the Summer Ball Flight and one guest would then win the holiday.

"All we need to accomplish our dream is secure some support from local businesses or tour agents.”

Anyone interested in supporting the event, due to take place at Gisborough Hall on Saturday, June 28, should visit www.summerballfundraiser.wix.com/summer-ball for a list of contact numbers.