More than 150 people celebrated the Chinese New Year at a Norwich restaurant – and helped raise thousands of pounds for victims of domestic violence across Norfolk and Suffolk.
Norwich's Lord Mayor, Keith Driver, Sheriff Graham Creelman and High Sheriff of Norfolk, Lady Leicester, were among the dignitaries at the Riverbank Chinese Buffet Restaurant on Riverside last night to mark the year of the horse as part of a fund-raising evening in aid of this year's civic charity, Leeway.
Lots and prizes donated by local businesses and organisations were auctioned off to bidders and were up for grabs in a grand tombola, with all proceeds going to the domestic violence charity.
Mr Driver said: 'It was a great night. We are grateful to the owners of the Riverbank for hosting this special event, to the many local businesses and organisations who made donations and to all the guests who helped make the evening a success.'
He added: 'It was great to see so many people, it was packed. We should raise a lot of money for the civic charity.'
Leeway is the largest specialist domestic violence charity in the region and has been running since 1974, and celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.
Mandy Proctor, chief executive officer for Leeway said: 'We're so grateful to the Riverbank Chinese buffet for hosting this fantastic event and to all the local businesses that have helped us raise funds at this event.
'One in seven children under the age of 18 will have lived with domestic violence at some point in their childhood, so this is a great event which helps to raise funds and awareness which in turn directly helps thousands of children across Norfolk.'
Domestic abuse and sexual violence know no boundaries and – although women are particularly at risk – anyone from any community can become a victim, or a perpetrator, regardless of their gender, sexuality, social status, age, religion, race, culture and ability.
More information about Leeway's services can be found at www.leewaysupport.org.uk
Have you been a victim of domestic abuse? Call reporter Peter Walsh on 01603 772436, or email peter.walsh@archant.co.uk
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