A 16-YEAR-OLD girl has raised £30,000 for charity in just one night. Hannah Liddell racked up the colossal amount for Little Havens children’s hospice in her first fundraising attempt.
The youngster spent her free time organising a black tie event at Stock Brook Manor, in Billericay, as part of her business studies A-level course.
At first, she hoped to raise £10,000 but Hannah ended up tripling her target.
Hannah, who lives in Clock-house Lane, Little Burstead, puts her success down to one thing – determination.
The student, of Newhall School, in Chelmsford, said: “It was hard work. I spent more than five months organising the ball, but it was worth every moment.
“I learnt a lot, but most of all I realised if you want something, you’ve got to be pushy.
“I made up my mind I wanted it to be a success, so I wasn’t going to take no for an answer. I found there are a lot of people and businesses out there willing to help charities if you give them a push.”
More than 220 guests forked out £60 a head for tickets.
The ball included a three-course dinner, magician, pianist, auction and performance from X Factor 2009 bootcamp contestant, Amy Connolly.
Hannah added: “I am absolutely thrilled all the hard work has paid off. My family have always supported the hospice, so that’s why I chose the charity.”
Hannah is studying for A-levels in philosophy and ethics, politics, drama and business studies.Danielle Kiss, Little Havens community fundraiser, added: “£30,000 is a lot for anyone to raise, let alone a 16-year-old on her first fundraising initiative.
“We have been gobsmacked by Hannah’s success. She put so much effort into this. She is very young, but we have already asked her to continue working with us – she’s proved she’s got the knack for it.”
Little Havens, based in Thundersley, costs £2.3million to run every year.
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