The 12^th annual Lobster Ball, held at Hardwick Hall Hotel in County Durham, has raised £35,933 for Stockton-based Daisy Chain, a charity supporting young people with Autism, currently helping more than 1700 families across the Tees Valley.

The glittering event, sponsored by Great Annual Saving Group and Aston Martin, was attended by hundreds of guests who enjoyed an evening of fine food and drink as well as a special performance by 1980s soul stars Shalamar.

The Lobster Ball is held annually to raise much-needed cash for the region’s good causes, and has raised £300,000 since its launch in 2006. It has supported Daisy Chain since 2013.

Stuart Dexter, Daisy Chain chief executive, said: “We are overwhelmed by the support and generosity from all the guests at the Lobster Ball which enabled Daisy Chain to raise an amazing £35,933 on the night. It was a wonderful event to be a part of and a great opportunity to raise awareness about autism in the North East. This support makes a real impact on our ability to help families with autism, and helps Daisy Chain to support families in more ways.”

John Adamson, owner of Hardwick Hall Hotel and Ramside Estates added: “This year’s Lobster Ball once again proved to be an amazing event and was thoroughly enjoyed by all of our guests. As well as giving everyone a fantastic night, we managed to exceed all expectations and raise an incredible sum for Daisy Chain, which will go some way to making improvements to children and their families here in the North East.”