Family, friends and colleagues across Royston came together to celebrate the life and legacy of prominent local businesswoman Julia Brooks.
Julia was the chair of Royston Chamber of Commerce, a prominent facilitator at Royston First BID, a founding director at C4B marketing agency, and a captain at Swifts Netball Club.
She sadly died from cancer in August last year, with many people in the community paying tribute to her significant role within the town.
More than 160 people attended the 'Afternoon of Celebration' charity fundraiser at Burloes Hall on Wednesday, September 13 - which was organised by Julia's former colleagues at C4B.
Attendees were treated to a "sumptuous" sit-down meal by catering company Portfolio Events, while entertainment was provided by Royston singer Tom Huttlestone and Herts-based jazz singer Miss Jones.
A raffle was held to raise money, with all proceeds going towards the Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, which provided care and support to Julia and her family during her final days, allowing her to remain in the comfort of her own home.
Sharon Grocott, managing director at C4B and Julia's close friend, said: "Everyone who knew Julia knows she was extremely passionate and committed to Royston businesses and its people.
"So, it was only right that we came together to remember her and celebrate her life.
"And, it was the perfect afternoon, filled with love, warmth, and the joyous spirit that Julia herself radiated.
"The afternoon served as a poignant reminder of the power of community, too, as Royston came together to honour Julia and contribute to a worthy cause.
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"Since the event, we’ve received many messages of thanks from guests, sharing how beautiful it was and how they had a lovely time."
The event raised £7,478, which Sharon said is "a testament to the unity and compassion of our community".
She added: "We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to:
"Portfolio Events – Mathew Norris and the team, for providing the delicious catering that added to the warmth of the day.
"Royston First BID, Royston Chamber of Commerce, and The Listing Magazine – for your generous sponsorships, which helped us bring this event to life.
"Bury Lane, for the beautiful, hand-picked blooms that adorned the tables, including Julia’s favourite flower – the sunflower.
"The team at Arthur Rank Hospice Charity – for all their help on the day, in addition to the invaluable care and support they provided to Julia and her family during her final days.
"Singers, Miss Jones and Tom Huttlestone for the fabulous entertainment that suited the occasion, perfectly.
"Local photographer, Gareth Jones Photography, for capturing the ambiance and special memories.
"All our amazing raffle contributors – your contributions made the raffle exciting, and your generosity contributed to our fundraising efforts.
"The wonderful team at Burloes Hall – for providing us with the most perfect venue to host this event.
"Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support, love, and contributions.”
Money is still being raised on a fundraising page in memory of Julia at https://juliabrooks.muchloved.com/, which now totals more than £16,000 following the Afternoon of Celebration.
The memorial page states: "Julia loved life, her family, her friends, her work, and all the many projects she was involved in within the local community.
"She touched so many people’s lives and was thought of very highly by all who had the privilege to know her."
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