SUMMER may now seem a long time ago, but for one Worcester-based charity a garden party held for them is still creating a fizz.

The glamorous event, organised by the HSBC bank, was held in the grounds of Worcester Cathedral in July.

Prominent members of the community attended the event and were able to find out more about Noah’s Ark and the vital work they do for bereaved children and their families in Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

Along with glasses of bubbly, high tea and strawberries, there was also an auction with prizes which included tickets to see Elton John and a Formula One track day.

The total raised was £22,000, but the bank believes this figure may still rise.

Emma Hallam from HSBC said: “HSBC Worcester Commercial Centre has been delighted to support a vital local charity such as Noah's Ark, given the invaluable support they provide.

“We would like to thank all of our customers, friends and professional colleagues that supported the garden party event so generously.”

Sue Smith, corporate fund-raising manager for the trust, added: “We are totally bowled over by the amount of money raised on our behalf – this will cover the cost of three residential weekends in the coming year, which 150 bereaved children will benefit from.

“The success of the event is down to the enormous amount of time and effort put into it by the whole HSBC team, and in particular Emma Hallam, Donna Dixon and James Uren.”

About 200 guests attended the party, including patron of the trust, antiques expert Henry Sandon and Miss Worcester Rosabella Styles, who modelled one of the hats being auctioned.

Noah’s Ark Trust is currently working with your Worcester News in the Towards A Brighter Future Appeal to find a new home – and hope someone is able to fulfil their wish to work at a place where children and their families can go to use their vital, free service.

Tell us about your event: Visit www.noahsasktrust. co.uk and click on the Support Us button. You can go directly to the Noah’s Ark site from worcesternews. co.uk. Or call the office on 01905 745735 or post a cheque, made payable to Noah’s Ark Trust, to Noah’s Ark Trust, 1-4 Canalside, Lowesmoor Wharf, Worcester, WR1 2RS. If you’re planning to have a fund-raising event for Noah’s Ark, contact our reporter Claire Fry on 01905 742263 or e-mail her on cf@worcester news.co.uk.