A big thank you to everyone who helped to make the 2008 Gala Ball such a fantastic success!

The evening started off with a Snowball Reception and entertainment from the Open Art's Community Choir (as seen on BBC 1's 'Last Choir Standing') on the stylish Gallery One at the Waterfront Hall.  The call to dinner came at quarter to eight and diners enjoyed a beautiful four course meal followed by a first look at the new MSSNI corporate video and hilarious entertainment from BBC Northern Ireland's Sean Crummey.

The dance floor was packed from when our band for the evening, Luv Bug, struck up, right through to 1am.  Revellers also enjoyed an outstanding interlude from emerging singer/songwriter, Paula McAleese.  A fantastic time was had by all - so much so that at the end of the evening the Waterfront Hall staff had to start clearing up around those who didn't wast the evening to end and were still chatting and laughing!

Thank you to everyone for their generosity on the night.  Thanks also to everyone who bought, bid on or donated an auction or raffle item and to our event sponsors.  We are pleased to announce that the evening raised £12,000 (profit).

Feedback from those that attended has been extremely favourable and indeed very encouraging.  Thank you to everyone for their kind words of congratulations, encouragement and support.  It certainly helped make all the hard work worthwhile.