A TOP Suffolk-based chef has today pledged his support to this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.
A TOP Suffolk-based chef has today pledged his support to this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.
Vernon Blackmore, who specialises in Malaysian cuisine and is a chef at the Satis House Hotel and Restaurant in Yoxford, has offered his services as an auction prize for the prestigious event.
Money raised during the glittering evening goes to the press ball's chosen charity Disability Care Enterprise(DCE) - a Suffolk-based charity which provides equipment for disabled people.
Mr Blackmore, who has supported the evening for a number of years, is offering to prepare and cook a dinner party for eight guests in the buyer's home.
He said: “DCE is a fantastic charity and the Press Ball is a fabulous event. I am delighted to be able to support it again this year.”
Inaugurated in 1997 by The Evening Star, the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball has raised more than a quarter of a million pounds for charity.
A dazzling night held at the Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, on June 22, the Press Ball attracts the cream of Suffolk society.
And as preparations get under way for this year's Ice Ball theme the 2007 event is expected to be the biggest and best yet.
Organisers have secured the services of heart-throb pop star Tony Hadley in a massive coup for what has become the highlight of the county's social calendar.
Carolyne Morey, DCE project director, said: “The Press Ball is the biggest fundraising event for DCE of the year. Every penny raised goes directly to helping those people that need our help.
“I'd like to say a big thank you to Vernon for his generous contribution. Last year we spent £70,000 on equipment for disabled children and adults and this is the one night of the year we can shout about our work.”
Ipswich firm Call Connection has generously agreed to sponsor the glittering event.
Graeme Kalbraier, managing director of Call Connection, said: “DCE is such a deserving cause and a charity close to my heart. “Over the years I have seen first hand how the press ball can change people's lives. I'd like to pass on my thanks to Vernon for his continued support.”
Star editor Nigel Pickover said: “The Press Ball has developed into one of Suffolk's most memorable evenings and this year will be no exception but at the heart of the night will be the very serious business of raising hard cash.
“I am delighted and grateful Vernon has offered his services again.”
Do you know a child helped by DCE? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.
1997-£3,000
1998-£6,000
1999-£21,000
2000-£35,000
2001-£33,000
2002-£40,000
2003-£26,000
2004-£31,000
2005-£22,000
2006-£40,000
Total so far-£257,000
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