CROWDS of people dressed in their best to celebrate one of the biggest charity nights of the year.

More than 150 people flocked into the Abbey House Hotel for the annual Jake Ellis Charity Ball.

The ball, which is in its sixth year, is held to raise money for the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group, in memory of Jake Ellis, who died when he was just five years old.

Jo-Ann Ellis, Jake's mother, said:  "We've been doing this for six years now and all the money raised goes to the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group and is used for research into children's cancer.

"And it's also just a night for us to remember our son Jake."

Mrs Ellis has raised more than £100,000 for the charity since losing her son in 2008.


Jake Ellis Jake was diagnosed with bladder cancer shortly before his first birthday but lost his battle with the disease when he was just five years old.

Six years later and his family and friends are still campaigning to spread awareness of the disease and to raise funds to stop any more children from meeting the same fate as Jake.

Mrs Ellis says: "People get affected by cancer all the time and the money we raise goes into research and that's the thing that's going to find the cure."

The evening included a lavish three-course meal at the Abbey House Hotel, followed by a raffle with amazing prizes ranging from a Ronaldo shirt and signed photograph to a luxury spa get-a-way.

All the prizes were donated by businesses and individuals across the area who have clubbed together to raise money for this special cause.

Mrs Ellis said: "So many people are inspired by the story of Jake and want to make sure no more children die from the disease."