THE inaugural Crewe Town Council Charity Ball took place on Saturday as contributors to the community were recognised with an awards ceremony.

The ball was held by the mayor of Crewe, councillor Irene Faseyi, and hailed a success as more than 70 guests gathered at Crewe Hall.

Guests enjoyed music from local band ‘All About Time’ before the awards ceremony.

Clr Faseyi said: “I am delighted that I had the privilege of holding the first Crewe Town Council Charity Ball and I am truly grateful that I have raised a generous amount for my charities.

“It was a glorious evening and I thank everyone who attended and made it a success.”

An auction and raffle took place to raise money for the mayor’s chosen charities. Prizes included a signed Crewe Alexandra t-shirt and a painting of Crewe Hall by David Jewkes, of the Jigsaw Project.

The Charity Ball raised more than £800 which will aid Macmillan Cancer Research, One-in-Eleven appeal for Leighton Hospital NICU and Christians Against Poverty.

Six awards were given out across four different categories. The Civic Award went to Frank Baldwin, from the Rotary Club of Crewe, who arranged many events and supported local organisations.

Sarah Lawley, the leader of Central Cheshire Buddies Scheme, was also presented with a Civic Award for her support for disabled children.

In the Sports Award category; Alex keeper Steve Phillips’ dedication to charity work was recognised, while Team Chongi were rewarded for developing sporting opportunities in the area.

The committee presented a Youth Award to cadet warrant officer Oliver King for his achievements within the Air Training Corps.

For contributing positively to the community and delivering hard work throughout the past year, the Crewe Clean Team was awarded the Community Award.

Suzanne Brookfield, deputy leader of the Council, said: “We are terribly pleased to make the first Town Council awards and to recognise in a small way the contributions made by all the award winners.

“As with such things we wish everyone could have been given an award, but I’m sure that many of those who didn’t win this year will have ample opportunity over the coming years.

“It is great that so many people do so many things on a voluntary basis and we want to encourage that as much as possible in our Town. These people and organisations have shown great commitment and enthusiasm within the community and deserve to be acknowledged.”