Penarth’s Westbourne School has raised £10,511.45 at its third annual Spring Ball, in aid of charity partner, Calon Heart Screening & Defribrillators.

The spectacular black tie event, help at the historic Exchange Hotel in Cardiff, was attended by parents, friends of the school, teachers and well-known faces from the Cardiff and Vale community, who enjoyed a dinner, silent auction, raffle and dancing until the early hours.

Taking place every year, the Westbourne Spring Ball has quickly become a must-attend event in the South Wales calendar, bringing the local community together for a very special evening. This year the school partnered with leading Welsh charity, Calon Heart, whose mission is particularly close to parents and teachers at the school. In 2018, Ben McDonald, brother of Westbourne Early Years Coordinator, Vicki Edwards, passed away at the finish line of the Cardiff Half Marathon after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Head of Westbourne Prep School & Nursery, Mrs Joanne Chinnock, said: “We are beyond thrilled to have raised over £10,500 in support of Calon Heart at our annual charity ball- a phenomenal sum that reflects the kindness, generosity and closeness of our unique Westbourne community.

This year’s ball has been particularly special for the Westbourne family. Ben was just 25-years old; a keen kayaker, snowboarder and all-round amazing person.

We are proud to be supporting such an important cause that resonated so deeply with our staff, parents and pupils.”

Calon Heart works to improve the availability of lifesaving defibrillators in Wales, and to raise awareness of the importance of heart screening. At least 12 seemingly healthy young people die every week in the UK from heart conditions they did not know they had.

Westbourne is an award-winning independent school located in Penarth, providing education for children aged 2-18. For more information call 02920 705 705 or visit www.westbourneschool.com