JUST under 2,000 guests attended Phyllis Tuckwell’s annual Christmas parties this year, which followed the mysterious and decadent theme of an Italian masked ball.

The venue was transformed into an authentic Italian setting, complete with ancient stone foundations, impressive colonnades and the famed Bell Tower.

A sumptuous three-course dinner was served amid the palatial splendour of the silk drapes, gilded mirrors and Venetian chandeliers of the Doge’s Palace.

Guests were entertained by aerialists, acrobats and silk artists during the meal, after which they enjoyed a charity casino, indoor dodgems, a disco, and a raffle and silent auction which both offered fantastic prizes.

“We are thrilled that both nights were such a success,” said Laura Moody, events fundraising manager at Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, based in Farnham.

“The money raised is still to be confirmed, but we hope it will be in excess of £34,000. It was amazing to see so many of our supporters join us to kick-start their festive season, and help us raise much needed funds. We are really grateful for their support.”