A BALL raised £16,000 for a children's charity last Saturday (May 21).

The Ruby Ball at Somerset County Cricket Club raised the funds for Brainwave.

It was organised to celebrate the charity's 40th birthday and was hosted by patrons of Brainwave - Lord and Lady Fellowes, who are known for writing Downtown Abbey.

They were joined by other dignitaries including antiques expert and Bargain Hunt presenter Claire Rawle who MC'd the event.

Guests enjoyed a wealth of entertainment on the night, with music from Bristol-based band Rooted and the Somerset Songbirds, as well as fundraising games and auction prizes.

Somerset County Cricketer Tom Lammonby sent a video message wishing the charity a happy 40th.

Star of the show was a giant ruby cake by Bakes By Kerry, which was so large it had to be carried by three people on the night. It was around eight kilos of dark chocolate.

Keith Sinclair, CEO of Brainwave, said: “It was a wonderful evening and absolutely fantastic that we managed to raise so much money on the night.

"With the help of our kind supporters we’re hoping to raise £40,000 in 2022 to fund a new full time therapist, who will help more children who need our support.”

Since 1982, Brainwave (who have their headquarters in Bridgwater, Somerset) has delivered over 13,000 assessments to children with have a range of conditions including autism, cerebral palsy, sensory processing and downs syndrome nationwide.

The Ruby Ball was sponsored by Tilney and Enable Law.