Christmas came early to The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh as 230 local ladies enjoyed a ‘Winter Wonderland’ lunch, raising £37,000 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) in the process.

The glittering event, which had to be postponed in December because of Covid restrictions, was hosted by popular Scottish presenter and comedian, Des Clarke and featured a variety of party games, a raffle, a champagne draw and a diamond draw.

There was also a silent auction and a live auction, compered by former Scotland rugby player, Andy Nicol. Entertainment on the day was provided by MGA Academy and popular Edinburgh-based band, BLEEKER.

Special guests of honour were CHAS parents, Andrew Couper and Gemma Munro from Kirkcaldy, Fife, who took to the stage to share how CHAS supported their family after the death of her baby daughter, Georgia in 2021.

CHAS High Profile Events Manager Diane Alton said: “Our annual Winter Wonderland event is always a hugely popular event in the CHAS calendar so we were glad to finally welcome all our amazing supporters back and to bring a touch of Christmas to Edinburgh this Spring-time.”

“We are delighted to have raised £68,035 (£36,903.85 after costs) which will go a long way towards helping the children with life-shortening conditions and their families CHAS supports across Scotland.

“I would like to say a huge thanks to our amazing host, Des Clarke, the MGA Academy, BLEEKER, Andy Nicol and, of course, our parent speakers, Gemma Munro and Andrew Couper for sharing their incredibly touching story about baby Georgia. Thanks must also go to all our guests, sponsors, committee, organisers and volunteers who truly made it the most wonderful time of the year!”