THE stunning surroundings of the Old Palace at Hatfield House provided the backdrop for Welwyn Hatfield mayor Carl Storer’s charity banquet and ball.

Saturday night’s event raised around �2,500 for the mayor’s charities, the WGC branch of the Royal British Legion and the Community and Voluntary Service (CVS).

The Mixed Group and Singing for Pleasure, both based in WGC, will also receive a donation from the proceeds.

A total of 120 guests enjoyed a sumptuous three course meal and entertainment provided by the Charlotte Collingwood Band and the Harpenden Pipe Band and dancer.

A charity raffle and auction boosted the money raised by ticket sales.

Cllr Storer said: “Hatfield House provided the perfect setting for my charity banquet and ball.

“I am very grateful to all those who bought tickets and participated in the raffle and auction, as well as to those who donated the prizes and contributed money to the very worthy charities I am supporting in my mayoral year.”

He said: “The WGC branch of the Royal British Legion, best known for the Poppy Appeal, provides welfare services to serving and ex-service personnel and their dependents. The local branch meets once a month at the Royal Naval Association Club in WGC.

“Funds raised will also support the CVS, which acts as a focal point in supporting voluntary and community groups and projects from their embryonic stage until they become established.”

Cllr Storer said current projects included providing a pool of volunteer drivers to take people unable to use public transport to health appointments, and a gardening scheme to assist the elderly and disabled.

He added: “Thanks again to everyone who made this fundraiser so successful.”