Ancient villa to host event for sick child

Guests will enjoy a champagne reception during a private viewing of the villa and its ancient mosaics dating back to the 3rd Century AD.

A three-course dinner will be served in the main marquee followed by music and live entertainment.

This is a premier event with tickets by donation of £95 each or to book a table, email [email protected]

All proceeds from the event go to local community initiatives with this year’s theme focused on ‘Youth’.

Sussex Downs Charity Ball organisers are delighted to be supporting two local causes, both very different.

The first, is a Thakeham family with a very sick child, Maxwell, who is two years old, has mitochondrial disease and requiring 24/7 care and support.

Their aim is to raise funding for urgent modifications to help the family continue to care for Maxwell in their own home.

Separately, on a broader issue encouraging youth participation in sport, they are supporting the new community and sports facilities being built at the Recreation Ground, Mill Road, West Chiltington.

As part of the Olympic legacy, the importance of encouraging young people into sport has received a lot of coverage.

Statistically, young people who take part in sport are less likely to suffer illness in later life including tackling problems like diabetes and obesity.

Home to West Chiltington & Thakeham Cricket Club, this is a big project with loans secured from the English Cricket Board.

With over 150 colts now playing, this is a club that almost closed back in 2000.

The new facilities not only provide a fantastic space for local sports groups in addition to cricket, but are available for wider community use and private hire.

Arundel and South Downs MP Nick Herbert officially opened the new Pavilion building at West Chiltington & Thakeham Cricket Club on June 14.

A representative from the charity ball said: “It is a great project and an example of what can be achieved when several groups pool their resources and ambitions together.”

This year’s gala ball is being held at Bignor Roman Villa on Saturday, September 6 from 7.30pm.

Visit www.westchiltingtonandthakehamcc.co.uk