The Friends of Norwich School Guys and Dolls Ball was held at the Norfolk Showground on Friday 17 November and certainly brightened up a gloomy winter’s evening.

Guests enjoyed a sparkling reception on arrival, accompanied by live piano music performed by Norwich School support staff member, Sarah Grimes, before moving into a beautifully decorated marquee for a sumptuous three course fine dining meal, served by willing members of the school’s Charities Committee.

There was a lively game of ‘Red or Black’ - a card version of Heads or Tails, which was drawn by the Head, with the winner bagging a tour of Adnams Brewery. After coffee, guests were thrilled to play their chips at professional casino tables (fortunately only pretend chips, much to the relief of many!). There was also competitive bidding on some unique lots in our silent auction, including signed shirts, football experiences, weekend trips, special tours, tastings and artwork. To close the evening, the lively Invisible Band musicians took over the dance floor for Dad (and Mum!) dancing until the very early hours.

All too soon the evening was over, the culmination of many months of preparation by our volunteer organisers and helpers, who cannot be thanked enough for all the fantastic work they do. As Jonathan Pearson, Trustee of FONS put it:  “They are the glue that holds the whole school community together.”

This was a magical evening of top-class entertainment, with the serious benefit of raising over £10,000 for the Friends of Norwich School’s charitable good causes: bursary support, funds for clubs and societies in school and a prize fund.

Our sincere thanks also go to Norwich Sunblinds, Desira Motor Group and Norwich Print Solutions for their incredibly generous sponsorship.