Winchester’s Guildhall is to host An Enchanted Evening Charity Ball presented by The Mad Hatters.

Catherine Turness and Claire Wellman – the faces behind the Hatters - promise the Bapsy Hall will be transformed into a ‘fairytale forest’.

They say a spectacular auction, live band, a photobooth from Cheeky Pics, and Capital FM DJ’s Emily and Gilles, all add up to a magical evening – literally.

Young maestro Liam Gradridge has been making waves on the magic scene and is set to work his own spells on the guests.

Since this is organised by the Mad Hatters, a buffet of cocktail sausages won’t cut it - The Sweet Treat Company will be adding to the other-worldly feel with the unusual Candy Buffet.

Behind all the frolics is a serious message. Both Catherine and Claire have had family members diagnosed with cancer: Claire’s father died of chronic myeloid leukaemia and Catherine’s brother survived tongue cancer.

They said: “That’s why we have decided to put aside some time in our busy lives, to organise this charity ball in aid of raising money for this very worthy cause.”

The ball, on February 1, is open to anybody and aims to be a real community affair, supported by a number of local businesses, including Dutton Gregory, 1-1 Recruitment and La Place.

Tickets cost £55 or a table of 10 is available to purchase for £500. To book, please contact Catherine Turness on 07921 957523 or e-mail info@themadhatterspresent.co.uk For further information on the ball, visit www.madhatterspresent.co.uk