YOUNG farmers could not disguise their delight at helping to raise funds for two local appeals at an annual charity masquerade ball.
Northallerton Young Farmers and the Friends of The Dales School, Morton on Swale, joined forces to help reach the £120,000 target set to refurbish the school’s hydrotherapy pool, a facility crucial to the learning of students with severe and complex needs.
The 132 guests, who attended the black tie and evening gown event at The Golden Lion Hotel, Northallerton, also helped to boost fundraising for the £2m Friarage Hospital MRI Scanner Appeal.
Assistant head teacher at The Dales School Anne Baker said: “To date we have raised £73,000 for our new hydrotherapy pool.
“All the plans are in place but with escalating costs we now need to reach £120,000 before work can begin.
“Events like this, and the support of Northallerton Young Farmers Club, are invaluable and will help us get even closer to our target to enable students to once again enjoy this vital provision to their learning.”
Mrs Baker was also presented with a cheque for £522.70 from The Alverton Singers and £70 from Rachel Masterman to help toward the school’s target.
President of Northallerton Young Farmers Club Kevin Baker added: “Our young members are really keen to help The Dales School in whichever way they can.
“The masquerade ball has become an annual event which gets bigger and better every year.
“This year we have also been supported by young farmers from other neighbouring clubs so we are hoping to raise a significant amount for both charities.”
Following a three course meal the ball was rounded off with a disco, raffle and a last man standing game of heads and tails.
For more information on The Dales School Hydrotherapy Pool Appeal and how to help contact annebaker@thedalesschool.org or visit the website at www.thedalesschool.org.