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

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

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.

David Hopkins founder of #ChallengeDerbyshire held the eighth annual ball which raised £90,000 and has taken the total to more than £2m. Photo submitted

placeholder image — David Hopkins founder of #ChallengeDerbyshire held the eighth annual ball which raised £90,000 and has taken the total to more than £2m. Photo submitted

“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.”

David said having seen first-hand the care and support provided by Blythe House Hospice and Ashgate Hospice, he knows just how vital their services are for families across North Derbyshire.

He said: “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.”

Guests enjoyed a four-course meal alongside entertainment including local award-winning children’s choir Perfect Pitch and vocalist Imogen Clark, before dancing the night away to live band Function Fever from London.

The eighth annual #ChallengeDerbyshire ball at the Devonshire Dome. Photo submitted

Representing Blythe House Hospice was Becca Gregory, fundraising manager and she said: “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 per cent of Blythe House Hospice’s running costs come from the NHS. That means a huge seven in every 10 of their patients receive care which is funded by the local community, through events like the #ChallengeDerbyshire Ball.

Becca said: “The kindness shown will help ensure people across North Derbyshire can continue to receive free, expert hospice care when they need it most.”

To find out more about #ChallengeDerbyshire visit challengederbyshire.org.uk