AN Oscar-themed night saw thousands of pounds raised for a Birchwood charity.

Downton Abbey creator Lord Fellowes, along with his wife Lady Fellowes, welcomed hundreds of guests to the Brainwave Oscars Ball held at the Mere Golf and Spa Hotel in Knutsford.

The night raised a record £67,000 for the Birchwood-based charity.

Lord and Lady Fellowes are both patrons of Brainwave which supports children with disabilities and additional needs in the north west and across the UK.

North west community manager Joanne Freeman said “We are thrilled to have raised a record amount of money at this year’s ball and we are overwhelmed at the support we have received.

"A fantastic night was had by all who attended and great efforts were made to fully embrace the Oscars theme.”

Brainwave’s chief executive Phil Edge said “I cannot thank everyone enough who was involved in making this year’s ball such a huge success and my special thanks go to our patrons, Lord and Lady Fellowes.

"Our support services work tirelessly to help children with achieving greater independence and enable them to reach their individual potential. We are extremely grateful for the ongoing support we have received and look forward to seeing everyone at next year’s ball.”

The event was sponsored by LCM Wealth Management with support from Birchwood Shopping Centre and Hale & Didsbury Salutions Publishing.

For more information about Brainwave visit brainwave.org.uk.