Two friends from Holbeach are preparing an evening of glamour, entertainment and fundraising in support of Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.
Chloe King, 32, and Lyane Markham, 41, are organising a black-tie Vogue Ball at the Peterborough Marriott Hotel on October 10. Guests will receive a three-course meal and wine, with a DJ, photo booth, charity auction and Vogue-themed fundraising activities also planned.
The event follows a vote in a Peterborough community Facebook group, where local residents were asked which charity they most wanted the ball to support. Sue Ryder was the overwhelming choice, prompting the friends to contact the charity and learn more about its work.
Why the friends chose Sue Ryder
After speaking to Sue Ryder and visiting its Peterborough hospice earlier this year, King and Markham said they were inspired by the care offered to patients and their families.
Sue Ryder provides palliative and end-of-life care, as well as bereavement support. The friends said their visit showed them that support extends beyond the patient and continues for families after a loved one has died.
“We were really surprised to learn how much hospices rely on charitable fundraising,” said Chloe.
King and Markham both work at Ashwood Homes and first met through Leanne’s former events and balloons business. Their shared experience and enthusiasm for organising celebrations led them to turn their interest in event planning into a fundraising project.
“We thought if we could use something we’re good at to raise money for a charity, that’s even more rewarding. We just want to raise as much money as we possibly can.”
Tickets and sponsorship
Tickets cost £65 per person and include the three-course meal and wine on the table. Businesses, families and other supporters can also sponsor tables, with opportunities starting at £100.
The organisers said the ball has been created to bring people together while raising vital funds for Sue Ryder’s hospice services and bereavement support.
King said the visit to the hospice had reinforced the need for its services in the community and left both friends determined to make the event as successful as possible.
“It’s such a dignified, lovely place and there’s such a need for Sue Ryder within the community.”
