Charity cash boost in memory of Martin Finch

That is the total raised by the latest Martin's Gala Ball organised by Ray and Jackie Finch in memory of their son.

It has taken the overall total gathered by the Martin Finch Memorial Fund to some 110,000. The 2008 annual ball took place on Saturday, November 22, at the Hilton Avisford Park Hotel in Walberton.

Mr Finch said: "For the eighth year running, the venue provided a spectacular backdrop for friends and supporters of Martin's fund to celebrate their contributions to finding a vaccine for all types of meningitis."

To help achieve this, two highlights of the night featured cheque presentations.

One saw Mr Finch present 5,000 to Steve Dayman, the chief executive of Meningitis UK. The other involved Mr Finch receiving more than 1,000 from Kate Simmons as the contributions she received at her mother's funeral.

The memorial fund began work in June, 2000, following the death of Martin the previous December. He died in just 48 hours from meningitis C. His parents have worked tirelessly, through the fund, to ensure the often fatal condition can be tamed.

But they also believe in helping people to have fun along the way. An Irish theme to the latest ball provided enjoyment throughout the evening. It began with a champagne reception and a five-course gourmet feast.

Mr Finch gave a touching speech about the fund before a cabaret by The Andromeda School of Irish Dance saw the young dancers perform several dances to Irish music.

Pip Frederick, the evening's compere, guided the guests through the evening with his wry sense of humour and staged the auction. This was supported by a range of companies.

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