We're having a ball

4:42pm Tuesday 18th May 2004

THE stars had a taste of the totally tropical and raised more than £38,000 for Haven House Children's Hospice at a Caribbean ball.

Film and TV star Ray Winstone, most recently seen on our screens as the infamous King Henry VIII, said he was only too pleased to help a local cause.

He said: "I first heard about Haven House from my mate Glen Murphy from London's Burning and I think they do great work.

"It gets help from all the people around it and I am happy to help raise the hospice's profile.

The actor recently appeared in a charity edition of TV gameshow Who Wants to be a Millionaire to raise money for Haven House.

He added: "After Who Wants to be a Millionaire people from all over the country wanted to help, I just think it's amazing.

"We should all be doing more to help good causes in this country."

Making a rare appearance, singer/songwriter Gabrielle said once she heard the night was to help children she couldn't wait to attend. The Brit Award winner, who shot to fame with her hit, Dreams, said: "Patsy Palmer told me about the hospice and I thought it would be good to come. I think what the hospice is doing is an amazing thing, and I am looking forward to making my contribution through the charity auction."

Gabrielle added she had her eye on a football signed by the entire Manchester United team for her son.

GMTV Entertainment Today presenter Ben Shepherd said: "I used to play for Woodford Rugby Club which is right near the White House Haven House's base, and I remember thinking them how sad the empty house looked. I think it is wonderful seeing it put to good use and I am glad we can both be here tonight to help."

Hospice patron actor, Glen Murphy, said he had been involved with the Woodford Green hospice from the beginning and was looking forward to raising a lot of money.

Guests were each given a flower garland as they arrived through the doorway of the Prince Regent Hotel, Manor Road, Woodford Bridge.

All of the Haven House's volunteers has been working hard all day creating colourful tropical table settings complete with a pineapple and red blooms.

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