With the season of goodwill approaching, Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice is asking Gloucestershire businesses, corporates and individuals to consider celebrating the best of the festive season with them.

After a two-year pause due to the pandemic, the iconic Pittville Pump Room in Cheltenham will once again provide the spectacular backdrop for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice's Winter Ball on Friday, December 2, from 7pm..

The evening promises a night of sparkle and glamour and the opportunity to give back through raising vital funds for Sue Ryder.

Over the past five years the Winter Ball has raised a staggering £120,000 for the charity - and hospice staff hope with the support of the Gloucestershire community this total can grow so they can continue to be there when it matters.

Sue Ryder nurse Mari Pittman is the ward manager of the hospice's inpatient unit. She hopes people will purchase a table and enjoy the evening with colleagues, family or clients and help raise vital funds for families needing the care she and her team help give.

Mari said: "At the end of someone's life our doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, family support team and physiotherapists can make all the difference. It is the specialist care we provide together as a team which helps make sure people's lives are filled with friendships, family and favourite pastimes right until the end.

"But as a charity we rely on the generosity of local companies and communities to make sure our care can continue. On average, only 30 per cent of palliative care provision in the UK is funded by the government, so it is thanks to our fantastic supporters and events like this which make it possible for us to provide the Sue Ryder care that we are so well known for."

Hosted by Sue Ryder supporter Neil Townend, the evening will offer a sparkling drinks reception, gourmet three-course meal, grand raffle and live music and dancing from The Chip Shop Boys.

Sir Geoff Hurst-signed 1966 World Cup memorabilia will also go under the expert hammer of TV's auctioneer Philip Allwood as part of an exclusive charity auction, alongside a chance to win a diamond worth £1,000 when buying a glass of champagne as part of a Diamond Champagne Raffle supported by R.J. Spicer Goldsmith.

It's a big fundraiser for the charity and Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice community fundraising manager Matt Reay hopes local businesses will get behind them and the event.

Matt said: "The past couple of years have been challenging for our patients but also their loved ones. By attending our Winter Ball you will be helping people get the vital support they need at what is a really difficult time.

"The event will also provide you with the exceptional opportunity to entertain colleagues or clients or celebrate the festive season in style with family and friends whilst helping to give something back."

Individual tickets cost £90 with tables of ten available for £850 with further bespoke table packages available.

For more information call 01242 395450 or email leckhampton.events@sueryder.org