STAFF at Miller Homes Southern took a break from house-building to raise £12,000 for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.

The award-winning house builder, based at Spinnaker House, in Lime Tree way on Hampshire International Business Park, welcomed 120 guests to its first ever charity ball last week, raising money for Naomi House and Jacksplace.

Held at Sandford Springs in Kingsclere, Miller Homes staff were joined by suppliers, contractors and consultants to raise much-needed funds which will help hospice staff provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for children and young people at its all-purpose centres.

Miller Homes area sales and marketing director Tracey Lee, said: “Everyone attending the ball had a wonderful time and raised money for a worthwhile cause in the process, making for an excellent evening. “Our guests were very generous and I’d like to thank them for attending the ball and supporting such a worthy cause.”

The evening included a raffle and auction, with lots including a VIP helicopter trip over London and afternoon tea at the Mandarin Hotel, tickets to see Manchester United, rounds of golf at Woburn, Celtic Manor and London Golf Clubs and various items of sporting memorabilia.

“The charity is set to revamp some of its high street shops, which are a key contributor to the £7 million needed every year to run Naomi House and Jacksplace,” said Tracey.

“Our donation has taken them a step nearer to their target, as each shop costs £10,000 to refurbish.”

Naomi House and Jacksplace have 20 shops across the region.

Jill McDonagh, area fundraiser for Naomi House and Jacksplace, is delighted Miller Homes is supporting them.

She said: “We are absolutely delighted with the donation and the team at Miller Homes who have worked so tirelessly to ensure the ball was a huge success.

“They set the bar high with a £10,000 target but with the help of their business network managed to sail past it. I can’t thank them all enough for their generosity.”