Guests step back in time for Air Aid Ball

Surrey Air Ambulance is no stranger to Redhill Aerodrome but on June 25 2011 it was joined by almost 300 supporters, sponsors and their guests for the third Air Aid Ball which raised a staggering £65,000 in support of the life saving charity.

The past two years have seen the organising committee bring a fantastic event to fruition and the guests enjoyed a spectacular evening with a 1930s Burlesque theme.

The evening began in style with a champagne reception where entertainment was provided in the form of a barnstorming air display by the world famous Tiger Club.

The Tiger Club began proceedings with the Turbulent Team featuring aircraft flying in formation and performing limbo, balloon bursting and flower bombing displays which were rounded off with aerobatics from a Stampe bi-plane.

Guests then took their seats in a large marquee for a sumptuous meal during which they were entertained by Richard Stilgoe whose lyrical style was much appreciated as Master of Ceremonies.

Dancers from the Divine Decadence Cabaret featuring the Devine Miss Em then took to the floor and guests danced into the small hours to the music.

Jon Horne, Chief Executive of  Redhill Aerodrome Ventures Ltd, said "This is the second time the Aerodrome has had privilege of hosting the Air Aid Ball and we are delighted to do it.

The work of the Surrey Air Ambulance is invaluable in saving lives and many people are surprised to learn that it is funded by donations.

For us being able to help the fund raising campaign in some way along with many other sponsors is very rewarding, particularly when you see the fantastic work undertaken by the dedicated Air Ambulance team."

Committee member Caroline Martin added "We have had a great deal of fun planning this evening.

Without the continued support of our wonderful sponsors this event would not be possible.

We were so thrilled to see so many old friends return and new faces joining us for this year's Ball.

We believe Surrey Air Ambulance is an essential element of our community and we are very fortunate to have them."

County Fundraiser Julie Jenkinson said "What an amazing night and we have had some fantastic feedback from our guests.

Due to the generosity of our sponsors all the costs of the event were covered so that all the monies raised from the Ball will come directly to the charity. Figures are looking good, we have hopefully raised £65,000 for our charity.

Being a part of the Ball Committee is an amazing experience and I cannot thank members and sponsors enough for their support. our next Air Aid Ball will be in June 2013."

Picture: Jon Horne presenting a cheque to Caroline Martin.

Surrey Air Ambulance would like to thank their sponsors: Callaghan Demolition, Chandler & Co, CC Cousins Construction, Fairalls, Harwoods, Hystar Construction, Kingston Smith LLP, London Helicopter Centres, Montal, Morrisons Solicitors, Prontaprint Reigate, Quinn-Essence, Redhill Aerodrome, Senses Holidays, Sibelco, Sotra Ltd, Stanton Construction and White & Sons.