AROUND 1,500 guests entered the shadowy world of the Speakeasy, as they arrived at FIVE in Farnborough for this year’s Phyllis Tuckwell’s Christmas parties.

The parties raised money for the hospice care charity, which provides vital care to patients and families in West Surrey and North East Hampshire, who are living with a terminal illness such as cancer.

Best Parties Ever once again hosted this ever-popular event, which was set in Chicago in 1928. With prohibition in full swing and bootlegging gangs ruling the streets, it was a time when those who wanted to party had to whisper a secret password to enter the hidden Speakeasy.

Once in guests at FIVE – many of whom came dressed in 1920s outfits – found the hot and lively jumpin’ Jazz Bar, and were treated to a three-course dinner, live entertainment, spectacular scenery, a live band, aerial acrobats and silk artists, indoor dodgems, a state-of-the-art disco and a charity casino.

A raffle and silent auction were held each evening, both of which contributed a considerable amount of money towards the final total, and guests were also able to have their photos taken as a memento of the event.

Laura Moody, fundraising manager at Phyllis Tuckwell, said: “Once again, Best Parties Ever put on a fantastic evening for our supporters.

“We would like to thank them for their continued support in helping us to hold an event of this scale, and also thank Paul Fitchett Images for his support, Premier Panel Skills for their sponsorship towards the evenings, and of course all of our fantastic volunteers who helped each night.

“The money raised is still to be confirmed, but we hope that it will be in excess of £30,000.”