The Hummingbird Centre is set to host its splendid Masquerade Ball once more, this time, on March 22, at the Tythe Barn, Launton, near Bicester.
The ball, which seeks to wine, dine, and entertain, is an effort to raise funds for the vital community charity.
Offering various services such as counselling, children's services and complementary therapies, the charity supports those living with and affected by cancer across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Berkshire.
Organising the event is Hummingbird founder Mechelle Harris, who will be stepping down from the cancer support centre duties as of April 1.
She said: "For me, it will be a night of mixed emotions I want it to be successful and everyone to enjoy themselves; but I'll also be reflecting that this is the last event that I will be organising for the Hummingbird Centre."
Tickets for the evening are now available for a cost of £95 per person.
The entrance fee assures patrons a welcome drink, a three-course meal inclusive of wine, and a lively evening orchestrated by Sparky and Sprite Entertainment.
There is also set to be a surprise on the night.
Also encouraged are donations toward raffle prizes and the auction, with several lots, including a round of golf, hotel stay, and an Italian meal, already secured.
It is hoped that more contributions of luxury goods and experiences will garner a larger bidding audience.
Expanding the reach of the auction, it will also go online for the first time.
Organised by James Kendling of Auction Revolution, it will be launched on the night of the Ball and will stay active for roughly seven days.
The aim is to increase the auction's potential audience, hoping to attract around 150,000 people worldwide, compared to the 100 people at the event.
Proceeds from the event will contribute to the centre’s running costs that stand at £250,000 annually.
The previous year's event raised more than £11,000, which helped fund a children’s barn and hire a specialist children’s counsellor.
Mechelle said: "This is our first fund-raising event of the year so we do have a bit of a mountain to climb to reach that £250,000 by the end of 2024."
Mechelle warmly invites people to come along, stating that attendees should expect a pleasant night full of surprises, quality entertainment, and excellent hospitality.
She said: "We would love to see people come along to this event – it’s such a great evening.
"Last year the dance floor was still full at midnight."
Those interested in contributing auction items, sponsoring a table, or buying tickets are asked to call 07787 299588 or email events@thehummingbirdcentre.org.
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