A spectacular evening of generosity and community spirit saw the annual #ChallengeDerbyshire Ball raise over £90,000 for local charities Blythe House Hospice and Ashgate Hospice, helping the initiative surpass an extraordinary £2 million raised since it began.

 

Held on Saturday 7th March at the iconic Devonshire Dome in Buxton, the eighth annual ball brought together local businesses and supporters from across North Derbyshire for a memorable evening dedicated to supporting end of life care in the local community.

 

Hosted by MCs Paul Jenner and Damian Senar, guests enjoyed a four-course meal alongside showstopping entertainment including local award-winning children’s choir Perfect Pitch and stunning vocalist Imogen Clark, before dancing the night away to live band Function Fever from London.

 

Founded by Markovitz CEO and Buxton FC Chairman David Hopkins in 2015, #ChallengeDerbyshire brings together local businesses to raise vital funds for hospice care across the region.

 

David said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted that this year’s ball has raised such a fantastic amount, taking our overall total beyond £2 million. It’s a milestone that reflects the incredible generosity and commitment of local businesses and individuals who continue to support this cause year after year.

 

‘Having seen first-hand the care and support provided by Blythe House Hospice and Ashgate Hospice, I know just how vital their services are for families across North Derbyshire. The compassion, dignity and comfort they provide to people at the most difficult time in their lives is truly remarkable, and I’m incredibly proud that #ChallengeDerbyshire can play our part in supporting them.’

 

Representing Blythe House Hospice was Fundraising Manager Becca Gregory, who praised the efforts of everyone involved in making the event such a success: ‘The atmosphere on the night was incredible, and it was inspiring to see so many local businesses and supporters coming together for hospice care. We’re hugely thankful to David, supported by Jennifer McBain in the running of #ChallengeDerbyshire, for the commitment and energy they put into organising such a special event each year.

 

‘Only 28% of Blythe House Hospice’s running costs come from the NHS. That means a huge 7 in every 10 of our patients receive care that is funded by our local community, through events like the #ChallengeDerbyshire Ball. The kindness shown will help ensure people across North Derbyshire can continue to receive free, expert hospice care when they need it most.’