Pictured at the Action MS Gala Dinner are Jenny and George Summers, Lisburn.	Dr Sameer and Dr Sarah Gangoli, Heather Lundy Aand Gerard Lundy, ClarkeShipway.ction MS

THE Action MS 'Big Night Out Gala Dinner Dance at the Stormont Hotel has raised thousands of pounds in support of families living with multiple sclerosis.

More than 200 guests, including Fort Hill College Principal Marion Getty, enjoyed a champagne reception and an auction to win tickets for the All Ireland GAA final and a David Healey signed NI jersey. The night was compered by May McFettridge.

Alex Best attended the evening and music was provided by Luvbug.

Action MS Chief Executive, Ann Walker, said: "We are very grateful for all the support from business leaders, friends of Action MS and so many young people. It was a big night out and a great start for our 2008 fund-raising programme."

The Action MS DVD made its first debut public showing which is now spearheading the charity's public awareness campaign.

"It's a short film that Action MS Chief Executive Ann Walker, second left, and party at the charity's annual Gala Dinner

gives a glimpse of what Action MS is about and where we have come from in the last 30 years," said Ann Walker.

"It goes a long way to raise public awareness of our work and hopefully will attract even greater support across the community."

The Action MS "Fund-Raiser of the Year", Des Keenan freceived a standing ovation for his work in raising �1 60,0 0 0 for Action MS. Action MS was able to put a Mobile Care Centre on the road to help families in rural areas. A specially equipped holiday chalet has also been provided in Portstewart for families living with multiple sclerosis.

Marion Getty, Principal Fort Hill College Lisburn and husband Edward pictured at the Action MS Gala Dinn	Action MS Chief Executive Ann Walker, second left, and party at the charity's annual Gala Dinner

Ulster Star
28/03/2008