The first Oxford Charity Ball raised more than £10,000 for a hospice.

More than 200 people attended the event at the Thames Four Pillars Hotel, Sandford, on Friday.

The ball was organised by Oxford Isis Rotary Club to raise funds for a children's log cabin at the Helen House Hospice, Leopold Street. Oxford City Motors announced at the ball that it will host an event in August to raise money to furnish the cabin.

The hospice was the first of its kind in the world to provide care and support for children with terminal illnesses and their families. Sister Francis, who founded the hospice, was guest of honour and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship which is the highest award given by the Rotary Club.

Organiser Stanley Goodchild said: "It was a tremendous success. We were delighted with the result. I think everybody enjoyed themselves and it was a real team effort.

"There was a big battle for the flying lessons in the auction, it went up to £400. The generosity was amazing, not only from those who came but also from firms which donated the prizes, they were very high quality." Prizes raffled included flying lessons, a helicopter ride and a week's car hire.

Oxford Mail editor Chris Cowley, a member of the ball's organising committee, said: "It was a tremendous night. Everybody seemed to have a fantastic time and helped a worthwhile cause."

Next year's event will be held on July 14.

Story date: Monday 24 May

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.