By Jamie White – Head of Communications

Auction items at the annual BEN Ball – which included a Douglas Stafford Mystery Shopping sailing day – have helped to raise more than £200,000 for charity.

Around 1,000 people from the automotive industry and key industry leaders attended the glamorous event at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London.

The standout moment from the evening was a heart-felt address from Kate Weaver, whose family had benefited from BEN’s help.

The collection of high calibre lots in both the main and silent auctions saw a bidding frenzy. The main auction prizes donated by Ferrari North Europe Ltd, Honda (UK) Ltd, Douglas Stafford, Alphabet (GB) Ltd, Blackshaws and, the star prize a Land Rover Discovery Sport 2.2D by Jaguar Land Rover, raised over £87,000.

Guests also enjoyed a full programme of exclusive entertainment including a roof-raising performance from The Royal Logistics Corps Marching Band along with a lavish four-course dinner.

BEN’s Chief Executive, David Main, said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who helped make the 2014 BEN Ball such a fantastic success. Kate shared with guests her family’s story of being helped by BEN – a very moving account and one that underlines the importance of the support and services BEN provides.

“The money raised on the night is vital as we extend our services and seek to meet the increasing need that exists across our industry. Thank you to all who contributed on the night and to the hundreds of companies and thousands of individuals who give regularly to ensure our support is there when colleagues need it.”