GLAMAROUS gown's, glittering guests and gargantuan generosity!Those were the hallmarks of this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.Using the theme 'An Enchanted Evening', last night's ball at the Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, smashed its own targets by £2,000 raising a fabulous £22,000 for Suffolk charity Disability Care Enterprise (DCE).

GLAMAROUS gown's, glittering guests and gargantuan generosity!

Those were the hallmarks of this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.

Using the theme 'An Enchanted Evening', last night's ball at the Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, smashed its own targets by £2,000 raising a fabulous £22,000 for Suffolk charity Disability Care Enterprise (DCE).

Every penny will go directly to help those with disabilities to improve their quality of life - a cause for which the lucky guests were only to happy to dig deep.

As guests were ushered through the fantasy forest complete with fairies and foliage, the Press Ball traditions of sophisticated fun and stylish entertainment were upheld in fine fashion.

With delicious food washed own with fine wines, the guests were treated to a sumptuous night to remember.

Star editor Nigel Pickover said: "We are thrilled to bits. The amount raised has exceeded all expectations. DCE is an excellent cause and it has been a fantastic night to remember."

Special guest Paul Daniels brought his own brand of magic as he performed an hilarious cabaret entertaining the 300 Press Ball guests.

Mr Daniels said: "I have had a great night. Tonight has been very well organised and I have had great fun."

The night's exciting grand auction, which included tremendous prizes donated by individuals, companies and organisations, pushed up the total delighting organisers.

Lots included stunning jewellery, magnificent meals out, weekends away, and even an exciting go-karting experience.

Guest Gary Sallows, of Chapel Development, said he was delighted to donate a Newcastle football club signed shirt for the auction.

He said: "I am a passionate supporter of DCE. It is not just about tonight all the money raised goes to help people for a long time."

Carolyne Morey, DCE project director said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of guests supporting the charity.

She added: "I am speechless with admiration for those who have so generously out their hands in their pockets to help DCE. It was a superb evening and I cannot thank the Star, the sponsor, and all those involved enough."

Sponsored by Ipswich-based company Call Connection the ninth Press Ball included cabaret by international magician Paul Daniels.

Call Connection managing director Graeme Kalbraier said: "It was a fantastic night. I am astonished we have gone so far above our target. Thanks must go to the generous people of Suffolk. I am so proud that Call Connection has done its bit to help such a deserving cause."