A FANCY black tie event which aims to support South Hill Park's youth learning programmes raised more than £5,000.

Bracknell Town Mayor held a charity black tie dinner at South Hill Park's newly refurbished Coach House on March 1.

Mayor Councillor Sandra Ingham, said: “I am delighted this Charity Dinner has raised more than £5000 for the direct benefit of South Hill Park’s youth programme.

"This success would not have been possible without the support of a lot of good local people."

The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Patron of Berkshire youth and over 100 local VIP leaders attended the dinner, including local businesses such as Boehringer-Ingelheim, Redwood Technologies and Francis Construction Lrd.

Bracknell Forest Mayor Councillor Alvin Finch was also there to present, as well as Bracknell Town Football representatives from local schools.

Cllr Ingham added: "It is important to support our local young people. South Hill Park’s inclusive youth programme builds the resilience, self-confidence and social skills of young people with an interest in the Arts and this in turn benefits our local community.”

Entertainment was performed throughout the evening with the cast of South Hill Park's High School Musical signing after dinner and The Barberettes, Berkshire's leading a cappella harmony group serenading guests.

Mark Hooper, associate director for youth learning and participation programmes, added: “I have seen the positive and in some cases life-changing impact participation in the arts can have on young people.

"We run a variety of targeted and open-access projects here at South Hill Park; made possible by such charitable fundraising.

Mark added: "We are delighted our Bracknell Town Mayor Cllr Sandra Ingham has selected Youth at South Hill Park as her charity of the year.

"She has been relentless during her year in office in raising the profile of youth participation at South Hill Park. This is an important relationship which will help ensure the Youth Programme at South Hill Park Arts Centre can continue to flourish."