Exciting times are ahead for Rainbow House as it announced its new name, Rainbow Hub, at the coolest event of the year, its Ice Ball held at The Villa, Wrea Green.

It raised over £46,000 for the Mawdesley based charity with the exciting re-branding and vibrant new look unveiled to guests at the ball to be followed by an official launch event in the New Year.

Months of discussions and research showed that Rainbow House was often confused with children’s hospices and respite centres; Pauline Clare, CBE DL, Chairperson of the Trustees, (pictured) said: “We feel that Rainbow Hub is a name which fits and reflects our work on many levels.

"The messages in the campaign highlight things taken for granted by many of us but which represent big steps for our children.

"This change will not alter the services we currently offer but will allow us to expand and move forward with confidence to exciting times ahead.”

Guests at the event enjoyed a three course dinner followed by entertainment from Zanda Magic, the Rock Choir and the highlight of the evening, The Boyz, before everyone took to the floor to dance the night away.

There were some fantastic prices in the auction including an Executive Box at Preston North End; two night London Break with a visit to the Ice Bar; luxury villa break in Spain; Fine dining in your home for 8; Gleneagles Winter escape; Caviar and a fabulous piece of original artwork 'Over the Rainbow' created by the children at the Rainbow Hub with the help of artists, James and Antony Hunter.

And one lucky guest, Alison Houghton, won a white gold diamond necklace which she kindly donated back and it was auctioned raising £750.

Prizes in an interactive silent auction, where guests could bid on iPads on the tables, included pantomime tickets, signed sports memorabilia, theatre tickets, hotel and glamping packages, flying lessons, a bungee jump and a gin masterclass.

Said Carole Cochrane, CBE, Chief Executive, Rainbow Hub: “Our thanks go to our sponsors, PNE and Ambrose Hire; Par Group for the Ice Sculpture, together with the entertainers and everyone who has donated prizes and their time.

The evening was a great success and special thanks go to all the guests for helping raise such a fantastic amount. It will make a tremendous difference as we move forward to expand our work and become a centre of excellence for the children and young people who benefit from the unique combination of services we offer.”

*Photography by Gareth Edwards Photography (07729771432), hello@garethedwardsphotography.co.uk who donated their services for the night to the charity.

*The charity receives no statutory funding and has to raise all of its own funds to continue to develop and deliver its services. It is reliant on donations, grants and fund-raising activities. It offers a range of therapies including conductive education, physiotherapy, active movement and rebound therapy which provide rehabilitation and fun for children, and young people with neurological conditions such a cerebral palsy, brain injury, stroke, MS and genetic conditions. Individuals with global developmental delay, undiagnosed and genetic conditions can also benefit from the specialist services provided. The therapies provided at the Rainbow Hub teach skills to empower the person to lead a more active and independent life. The aim is to help each child or young person achieve their full individual potential.