GENEROUS jewellers have today donated a stunning bracelet to the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball. So moved by the work of Disability Care Enterprise (DCE), the charity which benefits from the thousands of pounds raised by the Press Ball, Tessa and Mark Riley, of Ipswich store Riley & Riley, have given a magnificent diamond and white gold bracelet to help raise the cash.

GENEROUS jewellers have today donated a stunning bracelet to the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.

So moved by the work of Disability Care Enterprise (DCE), the charity which benefits from the thousands of pounds raised by the Press Ball, Tessa and Mark Riley, of Ipswich store Riley & Riley, have given a magnificent diamond and white gold bracelet to help raise the cash.

The splendid diamond line bracelet has a total weight of more than 1.5 carats and will be among the items auctioned during the glittering evening.

Mark said: "We have supported the Press Ball for the last eight years. It is a fantastic event and raises money for a great charity. Every penny goes directly to DCE."

DCE is a Suffolk-based charity, which funds vital equipment for people with disabilities.

Mark, 43, remembered meeting a family that had been bought a tricycle by the DCE.

He said: "One of their children had difficulty standing and walking. They can now go out as a family, the DCE gave them independence that we just take for granted.

"Equipment like that is so expensive. The DCE gives families freedom and enriches their lives."

Tessa, 37, said meeting people who benefit from the work for the charity is a humbling experience.

She said: "During the evening of the Press Ball they show pictures of those people we are there to help. It really tugs at the heartstrings.

"When you meet those people it makes your own problems seem small."

The big-hearted couple chose the fabulous bracelet from their shop, Riley & Riley, in Butter Market.

With 109 diamonds set in 18-carat white gold the bracelet is a remarkable piece of jewellery.

A jeweller with 25 years experience Mark opened Riley & Riley with Tessa in November 2004. Offering eye-catching designs, distinctive items and a bespoke service trade has been brisk.

Mark said he and Tessa chose the gorgeous bracelet, as it was a "bit special".

He said: "It is really stylish with a strong design element. It is beautifully made. It is a luxury addition to any jewellery wardrobe.

"We wanted to give something that people may not have. We are hoping for a few romantic husbands on the night of the Press Ball who want to bid for something special for their partner."

Now established as one of Suffolk's most prestigious fundraising events the Press Ball is sponsored by Ipswich company Call Connection.

Call Connection managing director Graeme Kalbraier said: "As sponsor of the Press Ball I am delighted that Mark and Tessa Riley have donated such a fantastic item.

"I know they have done so in the past and I am quite certain I will be among those bidding for the bracelet."

With the theme 'An Enchanted Evening' magic, mystery and illusion will make the Press Ball a night to remember.

As announced in The Evening Star top magician Paul Daniels will be performing during the evening.

Star editor Nigel Pickover said: "This is a magnificent gesture for a magnificent cause. This bracelet will bring even more sparkle to a sparkling evening."

Trying on the bracelet Tessa said diamonds are her absolute favourite gems.

She added: "You can never have too many diamonds. They go with everything."

Sponsored by Call Connection Press Ball 2005 takes place at Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock on June 24. Organisers have set a target of £20,000 to raise for DCE.

Weblink www.callconnection.com

Bracelet Fact File

N 18 carat white gold is 75 per cent pure gold and 25pc other metals. It is an alloy of Gold, Palladium and Silver.

N The bracelet is coated in Rhodium, a silver-white metal similar to platinum.

N The bracelet's distinctive clasp is known as a kiss motif.

N There are 109 'brilliant cut' diamonds on the bracelet. Eight on each of the 11 links and 21 on the clasp.

N The total weight of the diamonds in the bracelet is 1.51 carat.

N Tennis star Chris Evert was known for her diamond line bracelets. She lost one during the 1987 U.S. Open, and the game had to be temporarily halted while she prowled the court for it.

N The "tennis bracelet" incident sparked a new name for the item.