A SURPRISE appearance by Somerset and England cricket legend Marcus Trescothick was a highlight of the most successful single fundraiser in the history of Watchet charity Elliot’s Touch.

Elliot’s Celebration Ball at Taunton County Cricket Club on Saturday drew a capacity crowd – and a record-breaking return of over £8,000.

“It was absolutely amazing and far beyond our expectations,” said Donna Stevens.

Donna and her husband Paul founded the charity in memory of their 13-month-old son Elliot, who died of the rare mitochondrial disease and cardiomyopathy in 2015.

They have so far raised over £120,000 to fund research into the diseases.

“The support from local people and organisations was just fantastic and it was a night we will never forget. … Already people are asking whether we will organise another ball next year. The answer to that is a resounding ‘yes’. I just can’t wait!” 

For the full story buy tomorrow’s Free Press (February 15).