A GLAMOROUS Christmas ball proved to be more than just a great evening out - it raised £500 for Grove House at the same time. The St Albans day hospice in the grounds of City Hospital received the money from Sopwell House Country Club which held the ball

A GLAMOROUS Christmas ball proved to be more than just a great evening out - it raised £500 for Grove House at the same time. The St Albans day hospice in the grounds of City Hospital received the money from Sopwell House Country Club which held the ball three days before Christmas. It featured a raffle which gave members the chance to win a luxury overnight stay at Sopwell House and a bottle of champagne as well as many more prizes. Mark Sands, country club and spa manager at Sopwell House, said: "We are delighted at the sum our members raised at what was a very enjoyable event and are even happier that the money will help such a worthy local charity." Sopwell House has been a long-standing supporter of Grove House, frequently raising money for - or donating prizes to - the charity. Delighted Paul Parrish, fundraising director at Grove House, was delighted that Sopwell House chose to support the hospice. He said: "We really rely on contributions from local businesses. The staff and members of the country club have proved that you can have a great night while raising money for an important cause." He added: "We're always looking for exciting ways to work with local companies. Events like this one benefit both organisations and often make an evening more enjoyable as people attending know that they are having fun and helping a charity at the same time." Anyone wanting more information about how their business or organisation can help Grove House should contact Paul on 01727 731029 or e-mail paul@grove-house.org.uk And more information about Grove House and the free services it offers to local people affected by cancer or another life-threatening illness should visit www.grove-house.org.uk or call 01727 731000.