RICS matrics Derbyshire, in conjunction with Network DE1, held its first May Charity Ball on 30 May at Pride Park to raise funds for LionHeart and Padley’s. 

The May Ball attracted 158 young professionals and RICS members to enjoy an evening of networking, socialising and entertainment. 

Peter McCrea, partner of Milner McCrea, started the evenings fundraising off by introducing ‘Heads & Tails’ which provided one lucky table with a magnum of champagne. 

The main event on the night was a raffle, which saw prizes ranging from an iPod Nano, to bottles of champagne, a presentation case of wine, cinema gift vouchers, a ‘meal for two’ and a ‘Pamper Pack’ all generously donated by local companies.

The evening was an amazing success and raised more than £2,000 for the charities, LionHeart – for the ‘RICS matrics £35K appeal’ - and Derby based Padley’s. 

The organisers of the event would like to thank its sponsors Flint Bishop Solicitors, Smith Cooper, Gainsborough Properties and Michael Paige for their great support. Also thanks to all those who worked on the arrangements for the evening and to those who donated prizes.

David Burr, chairman of the marketing and fundraising committee for LionHeart, was invited as a guest to the ball. On the night he was presented with a cheque for £800 donated for the ‘RICS matrics £35K appeal’; the money was raised at recent RICS matrics Derbyshire events, including a ‘Race Night’ and quiz.

Due to the fantastic success of the group’s first May Charity Ball, plans are already underway for next year’s event, which will be held on 29 May 2009 at Pride Park. To make a reservation booking contact Henrietta by emailing hbettison@rics.org.