GUESTS at an annual ball dug deep in their pockets after learning that the evening’s charity raffle was in aid of Help for Heroes.

The event organisers, the Building and Engineering Services Association (B&ES) Yorkshire Region, were able to take a cheque for £3,500 to the Help for Heroes northern Recovery Centre – Phoenix House in Catterick Garrison.

Each year, the regional committee chairman is able to select a charitable cause to benefit from any fundraising events. Current Yorkshire Chairman Jim Marner chose Help For Heroes.

He said: “Deciding to support Help For Heroes was an easy decision based on the selfless sacrifice that our servicemen and women have made and continue to make on our behalf.

"I know that the Yorkshire B&ES region will take great pride in being able to assist this superb charity.”

The annual ball, held last month in Bradford, was attended by members of the Help for Heroes Band of Brothers and Band of Sisters - support groups for the wounded, injured and sick servicemen, women and veterans and their families.

Phoenix House centre manager Mo Usman said: “The war may be over for wounded injured and sick, but for those who have suffered life-changing injuries, their battles are just beginning.

“Our centre provides access to psychological, financial and employment support, as well as education, vocational training, welfare, sport and adventure training to day visitors and residents in a relaxed and caring atmosphere.”

To donate directly to Phoenix House send a cheque to Help For Heroes, along with the form that ensures the centre will keep the cash.

Print the form at http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/resources/files/31397, and send to Phoenix House Recovery Centre, Richmond Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, DL9 3AW.