A BLACK tie ball fundraiser has raised more than £12,000 to mark the 35th anniversary of St Margaret's Hospice.

The charity gala, organised by Melksham accountants Old Mill, raised £12,429 during a four course meal provided by hosts, Hazlegrove School, in Sparkford, Somerset, which was followed by entertainment from local band Eventine.

Rupert Cox, chief executive from the Royal Bath & West Society, was compare for the evening, which also included the raffle of a six litre bottle of champagne and a silent auction, raising £1,600.

Paula Hodge, head of private client at Old Mill, said: "One in three people in Somerset will need the support of St Margaret's during their lifetime, so it really is an essential community service.

“We felt we wanted to give something back and holding a big fundraiser to mark the 35th anniversary seemed like a good way to do that.

"We are overwhelmed by the support of local businesses and individuals and absolutely thrilled that the ball was such a success.

“The money raised will go to support the high quality, responsive and compassionate care that St Margaret's offers patients and their families facing a life-limiting illness."

Ann Lee, chief executive of St. Margaret's Hospice, said: "I would like to thank Old Mill and Hazlegrove School for their generosity and support with the organisation of the Spring Ball held in celebration of our 35th anniversary.

“The amount raised is fantastic and it will ensure that we can continue to provide high quality end of life care to those with life limiting illnesses across Somerset."