THERE were plenty of belles at the ball in an evening of glitz to give back to a charity helping victims of domestic abuse.

A masquerade ball was held at the Royal British Legion, in Western Road, on Friday to raise money for Andover Crisis and Support Centre, which offers accommodation as well as support programmes, drop-in sessions and advice for women and children affected by abuse.

Sinead Lucker teamed up with her sister Ceilidh Kemp to organise the event, after the centre supported Sinead for two years, and she completed two programmes aimed at educating and helping women about the effects of domestic abuse.

The 29-year-old Zumba instructor said: “I have used the crisis centre myself and I feel it is somewhere in Andover that gets really overlooked by people.

“You don’t know when you are going to need it, I thought it would be nice to give something back, have fun and raise money for a local charity.

“Thanks to everyone also who donated a raffle prize.”

More than £550 was raised from the night which saw a mix of guests from Zumba classes, women from the crisis centre and friends.

Andover Crisis and Support Centre, in New Street, is now in its 42nd year and is partially funded by the government but also relies on donations. For more go to andovercrisisandsupportcentre.org.uk.