TWO hundred and fifty guests enjoyed a golden summer’s evening on Sunday, August 31 at a recital in aid of the Nelson Trust.

Sarah Connolly CBE, one of the world’s leading mezzo sopranos, and Joseph Middleton, the highly acclaimed lied-pianist, kindly donated their time to perform a brilliant set of songs.

The Pittville Pumps Rooms provided the perfect setting and the sun made an appearance so guests enjoyed picnics in the park before Sarah and Joseph’s sensational performance.

Sarah Connolly began the evening by explaining that she was doing the recital to raise funds for the Nelson Trust having been introduced to the charity by the Trust’s late Chairman, Richard Lister.

Sarah thanked Martin & Co. for providing her with stunning Fope jewellery to wear for the evening.

Their joint performance of Ravel’s Sheherazade and Schubert not only thrilled the audience but meant Joseph ticked two things off his bucket list.

Sarah and Joseph’s wonderful renditions of songs by Ivor Gurney, Ireland and Handel completed the programme.

The evening’s sponsors, Bourlet Consulting, and their guests together with supporters of the Nelson Trust had the opportunity to meet Sarah and Joseph at a post-recital reception.

A perfect way to end the summer’s last evening, especially as it raised over £4,000 for the Nelson Trust.

The Nelson Trust is so grateful to Sarah and Joseph for their wonderful performance, and to Matthew Caine for page turning, our sponsors Bourlet Consulting, Martin & Co., all the volunteers, staff guests and donors who made the evening such a success.

The Nelson Trust helps thousands of people to recover from addiction, to re-build an independent fulfilling life and re-join the community.

The charity offers an abstinence-based, residential rehabilitation programme which offers therapeutic support and practical help with housing, education, training and employment.

For more information about the charity visit www.nelsontrust.com