A SUCCESSFUL gala evening celebrating a cricketing dynasty recently raised thousands for a foundation supporting grass roots projects.

The D'Oliveira Foundation was set up to honour the memories of father and son, Basil and Damian D'Oliveria.

Earlier this month the gala evening was held at the Hick Pavilion of New Road - the home of Worcestershire County Cricket Club.

Guest speaker was Antiques Roadshow Philip Serrell.

Pat Murphy spoke about being a friend of the D’Oliveira family while Mr Serrell echoed his sentiments.

The centre piece of the evening was the unveiling of the solid bronze commemorative bust featuring the head's of both cricketers.

The unveiling party comprised of Naomi D’Oliveira, Tracey D’Oliveira and Shaun D’Oliveira, and from the foundation Norman Gifford, president, Dormston Cook, founder and chairman, and committee members Howard Nichols and Catherine Steele committee members.

As the busts, made of American walnut by local craftsman Brian Maiden, were revealed on their plinths there were gasps and tears from Naomi and Tracey.

Mr Cook said: "The plinth will eventually be situated in the Hick pavilion for all the cricket loving public to admire.

"The evening was a complete success with our guests dancing the night away until the early hours.

"The foundation hoped to have raised around £4,000.

"Next year will be the 50th anniversary of the D’Oliveira affair, and we are hoping to be holding what promises again to be a fantastic occasion in the chestnut marque at New Road."