Mum’s diamond prize is hard to beat
CHRISTMAS will have added sparkle for one lucky East Cheshire mum who has unexpectedly added a £10,000 diamond ring to her jewellery collection.
Yvonne Dodd, 56, says she is walking on air after winning the one carat diamond at the annual Winter Wonderland Ball, which has raised a record £95,500 for the East Cheshire Hospice.
Mother of three Yvonne attended the ball at The Mere Golf Resort and Spa with family and friends but was unaware that her husband, Philip, had bought a £50 ticket for the prize draw in her absence.
“I was up dancing and didn’t realise that he’d bought the ticket so had no idea that I was even in with a chance when the draw took place,” she said. “When they called my name out as winner, I was completely in shock.
“I’ve never won anything in my life and am completely overjoyed to now own something so beautiful.”
The sparkler was generously donated by Greeba, Michael and David Jones, owners of PR Jones Jewellers, and the raffle brought in more than £10,000 alone for the hospice.
The diamond is colour D which is the best colour diamond and is set on a pendant which Yvonne admits she has worn every day since winning her glittering prize.
“I don’t think I’ll be taking it off for a long time,” she laughed. “I’ll be wearing it 24/7.”
More than 350 guests attended the annual Ball which was also sponsored by James Doyle Opticians who took a table at the event.
The evening was hosted by local compere, Paul Sleem and entertainment for the evening included a performance from DATS (Dance at the Smithy) dance and theatre school and music from the Alex Clarke jazz trio and Superfreak.
“Events like the annual Ball are so important to us as we rely on the generosity of our community to pay for more than 80 per cent of our day to day running costs,” said Joanna Boyd, events manager.
“It was a wonderful evening which raised a record amount – our thanks to everyone who made it so special.”