An evening consisting of fancy footwork and glamourous gowns has fetched in more than £37,000 for a Letchworth-based hospice. 

Hitchin Come Dancing took place in March at Hitchin Town Hall in aid of Garden House Hospice Care. Ten 'celebrities' were paired up with students from local dance schools to train for the glittering occasion before stepping out on to the dancefloor.

The amount raised could keep the Hospice's Inpatient Unit running at full capacity for more than five days. This includes nursing and doctor costs, and running costs such as hot water and keeping the unit clean.

Longstanding hospice volunteer and supporter Maggie Killingbeck organised Hitchin Come Dancing:

"I put the event on for two reasons. Firstly, the Hospice provided amazing support for myself and my family during the last two weeks of my husband's life, and secondly, I am a huge dance enthusiast. I believe that dancing contributes to physical, mental and emotional well-being.

"In addition to raising lots of money for Garden House Hospice Care, it was therefore the ambition of Hitchin Come Dancing to inspire the 'celebrities' and their supporters with the joy of dancing. Needless to say, I was completely taken aback by the sum raised and thrilled that all of the dancers enjoyed the event and felt a genuine sense of achievement."

Carla Pilsworth, Director of Strategy and Income Generation at the Hospice, shared her heartfelt thanks:

"I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Over the past 18 years of my career in fundraising, I've had the privilege of meeting some truly extraordinary people. People who, after their own personal experiences, have chosen to give their time, compassion, and support back to help others.

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"One person who truly stands out to me is Maggie. Her unwavering support through volunteering and fundraising over the years has made a tremendous difference to our work. We simply couldn't continue providing the care we do without nights like tonight. Your dedication to our cause is inspiring, and on behalf of the entire hospice team, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. I'd also like to extend a huge thank you to all the dancers."

It costs Garden House Hospice Care £7.7m to provide their services, and although they receive some funding from the NHS, they need to raise £15,300 every day in charitable income and greatly rely on the support of the community - local businesses, groups and individuals to help fund their work. 

If you are interested in organising your own event in aid of the Hospice, email [email protected] or visit www.ghhospicecare.org.uk/organise-your-own-event for ideas and advice.