A SWINDON mental health charity set up in memory of former BBC journalist Kelly Stooke is celebrating after a successful night of fundraising.

The Kelly Foundation was set up in January by Kelly's father John Stooke, 76, following the death of his daughter to suicide in 2019.

The organisation recently rounded off an 'excellent first year' with an Autumn ‘Black Tie’ Ball at the DeVere Lakeside Hotel in Cotswold Water Park which raised thousands.

The theme of the evening was ‘Strictly Come and Dance’ promoting good mental health through dance and exercise and between each meal course, guests revelled in some stunning dancing displays who all performed voluntarily.

First up was Sophie Brown and partner Jack Tatem (Bobby’s Academy of Dance) who gave a heart-rending interpretation of Ed Sheeran’s ‘Perfect,

The starter was followed by a Cha Cha Cha and a Rumba display to the stunning Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga track ‘In The Shallows’ by A & E Doctor Heather Clarke and partner Paul Woolhead.

Swindon Advertiser: Kelly StookeKelly Stooke (Image: John Stooke)

Then before the dessert, the 150 diners enjoyed watching paramedics and World Irish Dance Champions Leon Westcott and Madeline Dale, from Swindon, who together gave a mesmerising demonstration of three Irish dances.

After the performances, trustee Rob Abbott led an auction of promises which raised a staggering £3500 on its own.

Some of the most sought-after items were Ronaldo signed Manchester United shirt which made £750 and a XXIV Squadron Tour at Brize Norton which made £400 .

Also highly sought after was a four course meal to be prepared in one's own home by renowned and award winning chef Dan Moon which started out at £50 and ended up a magnificent £500.

On top of this there was an ongoing background raffle all evening with around 50 desirable prizes which on its own raised in the order of £1500 for the charity.

The evening was finished off with the sounds of Swindon DJ llker Turker (EKOM) who kindly donated his fee at the end of the night.

John Stooke, chair said: “These events are essential for the Kelly Foundation to be able to continue its work as we receive no statutory funding. The funds raised will be used, in part, for buying in specific help for those on our waiting list.

"We wish to thank everyone for their continued support."

The next big Charity Event is a concert within Swindon's Christchurch Old Town, that's on October 27, and celebrates 50 years of Pink Floyd music and the iconic album ‘Dark Side of the Moon’, which will be played in its 45 minute entirety.

For tickets go to www.ticketsource.co.uk, and scroll down to ‘The Kelly Foundation.