AN ASTONISHING £12,000 has been raised for two worthy charities at Haverfordwest Ladies Circle's Give So Others Can Live charity dinner.

The sell-out evening, attended by more than 200 guests, was held in support of the Belle's Story charities and the Better Life Appeal.

Local girl Belle Curran delivered a heart-warming speech before introducing a tear-jerking film about her courageous search for some new lungs as she battles life with interstitial lung disease. Belle remains on the emergency transplant list and her daily struggles intensify as time passes.

Joining Belle was the inspirational Dr Allison Angell, a massive supporter and friend to Belle, Allison is the recipient of four donated organs herself. From Pembrokeshire originally, Allison raises money for the Better Life appeal, supporting adults in Wales with Cystic Fibrosis. She also campaigns about the importance of talking about organ donation.

Guests at Saturday's event at The Wolfscastle Country Hotel were treated to a delicious, Welsh- themed, three course dinner and entertained by a Tom Jones tribute act. Following the emotional Belle's Story film, made by Kristian at Fine Rolling Media, a charity auction was held by the wonderful Brian Harries, alongside a silent auction and raffle. All prizes were generously donated by Welsh businesses and friends.

Mandy Stirling, chair of Haverfordwest Ladies Circle, who recently received a Local Hero Award for her fundraising achievements, said she was overwhelmed by the generosity shown in support of the evening.

"I am continually shocked and humbled by the efforts of the ladies and the kindness of all our friends and local businesses who support us," she said.

"A massive thank you to all those who so generously donated raffle and auction prizes; to our fabulous auctioneer Brian Harries and to Balloonatics Pembrokeshire for donating their amazing display; Pink Bon Bon Sweet Bar for donating the sweet cart; Upsy Daisy and Sitting Pretty for the chair covers and Fine Rolling Media for the fantastic short film and all the staff at the Wolfscastle Country Spa Hotel & Restaurant.

"This year we have made it our mission to get everyone talking about organ donation so that we can get Belle the lungs she so desperately needs. And along the way, we've raised lots of money for some amazing charities."

The next Belle's Story charity fundraiser is a Family Bingo event which will be held at The Wolfscastle Country Hotel on April 14th.