Airedale Hospital and Community Charity has announced plans for a major fundraising event later this year to support the hospital's littlest patients.
The Grand Ball will take place on Friday 8th November at East Riddlesden Hall to raise money for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust's neo-natal unit, which specialises in caring for babies from 32 weeks gestational age and above.
The black-tie fundraising evening will include a drinks reception, three-course meal, silent auction, raffle and live entertainment.
We're delighted to be supporting the charity with their fundraising once again, and The Grand Ball will be hosted on the night by our breakfast show presenter Nick Hancock.
Airedale's neo-natal unit provides a vital service, with some babies staying just hours while others stay for weeks depending on the level of care needed.
Sarah Szpara, Neo-natal Unit Manager said: “We are excited for the ball as it gives us an opportunity to fundraise whilst also highlighting what the unit does for our tiny patients and their families under our care.
“The funds raised from The Grand Ball will help us make improvements within the unit including a refresh of the family bedrooms on the ward. The bedrooms provide a space for parents or families to stay when their baby is still receiving treatment on the ward. The rooms are also used as a space for families to get ready to go home after a long stay on the unit. Bringing home comforts into this space will make such a difference at a really special time.”
The Grand Ball caught the attention of headline sponsor Robertson Construction. Jonathan Sizer, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Yorkshire & East Midlands, said: “As a proud partner of Airedale Hospital & Community Charity, we are delighted to be furthering our fundraising activities with the sponsorship of The Grand Ball.
“While delivering works across the Trust's estate, we are committed to delivering meaningful benefits for the surrounding local community. Our sponsorship of The Grand Ball upholds this commitment and helps Airedale Hospital’s patients and staff receive the best possible care and support.”
Other local businesses Shelby, Hive, Pro Fire and Gallaghers Family Funeral Directors have provided sponsorship for various elements of the evening to make it a night to remember.
Laura Hepworth, Community Fundraiser said: “We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for getting behind The Grand Ball and Airedale’s neonatal unit. Because of their generous support, we’ve been able to secure a fantastic band and a fabulous photo booth to commemorate what we hope to be our biggest event yet.”
Tickets are now available to purchase for £65 per person. That includes a ‘fizz and fire’ drinks reception, three course meal, silent auction, raffle and live entertainment courtesy of four-piece band Whiskey Wood.
Book your tickets directly online by tapping here.
You can find more information about the event and the charity at airedalecharity.org.

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