A FORMER monastery dazzled guests with its hidden gems and shining performances on a fundraiser to support the hospice.

Ashridge House in Berkhamstead opened its doors to businesses in the area who came together to support the Peace Hospice Care at the Hidden Gem Charity Dinner on Friday, October 6.

More than 100 people from companies including Warner Bros. Studios, Veale Wasbrough Vizards and Myers Clark attended the annual dinner to raise £20,000 for the continuing care provided at the hospice.

Guests were shown around the National Trust property, including the 734-year-old medieval Well Room and Chapel which are not usually open to the public.

The tour was led by comedian Tim FitzHigham and a chorus of performers from Cassiobury Productions who dressed up as monks and serenaded guests with monastic song as well as a more cheery rendition of Bring Me Sunshine.

Patrons were given the opportunity to win a diamond worth £1,500, ultimately won by Jane White, the chance to try on a £150,000 diamond and emerald necklace and partake in a silent auction.

The Diamond Trust Managing Director Vivian Watson said: “We were delighted to be invited to sponsor the Hidden Gem Charity Dinner at Ashridge House.

“We are aware of the tremendous care and support provided by Peace Hospice Care and enjoyed working with the charity to make this special fundraising occasion a huge success.

“Our company ethos is to channel profits from the manufacture and sale of diamond and gem-set jewellery to a range of charitable work at home and overseas.”

Peace Hospice Care’s Partnerships and Philanthropy Manager Joanna Milton said: “We are thrilled that the evening was such a success and extremely grateful to The Diamond Trust for their support.

“We would also like to thank Cassio Productions for providing us with performers who really animated the tour of this historic local landmark.

“The Hidden Gem Charity Dinner gave us a chance to bring local, national and international businesses together to thank them for their support and to highlight how their generosity contributes to helping us raise the £5 million a year we need to run our free specialist services.”

For more information or to support Peace Hospice Care visit www.peacehospicecare.org.uk/businesspartner or call 01923 335 370.