There are certainly no fools at this ball

Guests dress up and have their photos taken in the Selfie Mirror at Methodist Action (NW)'s April Fool's Ball

Methodist Action (North West) Ltd welcomed 90 guests to their April Fools’ Ball at the Preston Marriott Hotel, where there was plenty of fun and amusement.

After walking up the red carpet, guests were invited to have a picture in the Silly Selfie Mirror.

Local Caricaturist Chris Knapman was on hand to draw guests throughout the evening and donated of all proceeds to the Methodist Action charity, which supports people who are homeless.

Guests enjoy the caricaturist at Methodist Action (NW)'s April Fool's Ball

Magic was also provided by magician Mr Jolly. The evening was hosted by Stuart Michaels who kept everyone highly amused throughout the evening and also provided the vocals and disco.

Guests also enjoyed raffles and auctions, with prizes donated by local businesses, helping to raise part of the evening’s £3,500 total.

CEO of Methodist Action, Stephen Hetherington says: “I am so grateful to everyone who supported the charity.

“It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying themselves while raising essential funds for the vital services that the charity provides to the homeless and rootless across Lancashire.”

“Following on from the success of this event, plans are already underway for a whole host of future events and fund-raising activities.”

While the emphasis of the evening was on having lots of fun, it was also important to remind guests of the reason behind the event.

In order to do this, the charity linked up with UClan to hold a competition which saw for students create a film to raise awareness about the issue of homelessness.

The winning film was introduced by the film’s producers during the evening to what proved to be a captive audience.

Magician Mr Jolly at Methodist Action (NW)'s April Fool's Ball

Stephen adds: “The engagement with the students at UCLan is so important to the ethos of the charity.

“We want to encourage growth and development in our service users and equally in those engaged in helping the charity.

“The issue of availability and affordability of homes for the younger generations is becoming more acute by the year.

“And therefore it is important that the charity encourages these young people to engage in debate, discussion and action about this and related issues so they can be a part of the solution in the future.”