WITH the final count having been done, the Starlight Ladies of Okehampton are celebrating after their masked ball in August raised £7,600 for Cancer Research UK and £200 for Exeter Leukaemia Fund.

The biannual event takes place the day after Okehampton Show in the food marquee. Hundreds of people donned masks and dressed to the nines, enjoying a four-course meal and champagne on arrival, served by players from Okehampton Rugby Club. After the food, guests enjoyed music and entertainment.

Wendy Raymond, one of the ball organisers and chair of the Starlight Ladies, said:?'I cannot thank the people of Okehampton enough for their fantastic support. I have been overwhelmed by their kindness, and also the generosity of the many businesses and individuals who donated auction and raffle prizes.

'Without the help of my team around me who spent hours organising the many aspects of staging a ball, I could not have done it. We had a great night and raised a substantial amount of money for a cause very close to our hearts.'

Penny Woodman, Cancer Research UK's area volunteer manager said: 'I would like to thank the Starlight Ladies for the fantastic amount they have raised from the ball and the massive contribution they have made to our vital work.

'Cancer Research UK has made enormous progress in the fight against cancer and continues to do so. However, we have only been able to do this thanks to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers and supporters without whom we would not be able to fund our vital research.'