The Ascot Charitable Trust (ACT) was established following a hugely successful Charity Ball in 2001 in aid of ChildLine, which netted £55,000. It was attended by a host of celebrities, including its distinguished Chairman, Esther Rantzen.

The Trust was set up in 2002 to benefit both national and local charities, community groups and individuals with special needs, who live within the Ascot area. Our main fundraising event of the year is the Ascot Charity Ball, which has now become one of the most prestigious charitable functions in the Ascot social calendar. To date, the Trust has raised over £400,000, thanks to your generous and continued support.

The nominated charities for 2008 were the NSPCC and Childline. Once again the event was extremely successful and £50,000 was raised. To read about the 2008 Ball please click here.

The nominated Charity for 2009 is:

Barnardo’s believes in children regardless of their circumstances, gender, race, disability or behaviour.

We believe in the abused, the vulnerable, the forgotten and the neglected. We will support them, stand up for them and bring out the best in each and every child.

We do this because we believe that every child deserves the best start in life and the chance to fulfil their potential.

We use the knowledge gained from our direct work with children to campaign for better childcare policy and to champion the rights of every child.

With the right help, committed support and a little belief, even the most vulnerable children can turn their lives around. Barnardo’s is regulated by the Charity Commission. Being a registered charity means that we must always be accountable and transparent.

To read more about us please follow this link: www.barnardos.org.uk