Time travel ball raises money for the Surrey Air Ambulance Fund
Monday, 10 August, 2009
A marquee at Redhill Aerodrome was recently transformed into a 1940's style ballroom for the "Air Aid Ball" which raised £54,000 for the Surrey Air Ambulance Fund.
Guests at the Second World War themed event were transported back in time for the biennial fundraiser organised by local businesses across Surrey, including accountants Kingston Smith, London Helicopter Centres and estate agents White and Sons.
The evening began with a spectacular thirty minute flying display involving a Spitfire, Hurricane and the Guinot Wing-Walkers - the World's only formation wing-walking team, it all got underway after the sounding of an air raid siren, similar to those used during the blitz.
Composer and lyricist Richard Stilgoe was compare for the night and treated the seated diners to a humorous topical piece, he also introduced historical recordings of British Prime Ministers - Neville Chamberlain and Winston Churchill.
The evening also including an auction with money can't buy items like a 'home cooked meal for eight by celebrity chef Tony Tobin' and a trip to the Belgian F1 Grand Prix with Paddock privileges - the auction alone raised £21,000, and after a three course meal - there was dancing with music supplied by 16 piece band 'String of Pearls'.
Julie Jenkinson, Surrey County Fundraiser said "It was an incredible evening for everyone involved - guests and organisers alike. We had incredible support from local businesses, but then to go on and raise a staggering £54,000 is just amazing."
The Air Aid Ball is biennial and to find out more, visit
www.surreyairambulance.co.uk
