Colchester's NSPCC Business Group is made up of 16 companies which care about children and their welfare. The group was formed when the town branch of the UK's biggest children's charity needed money for local projects.

The business group's first Emerald Ball was in 2008 at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, the home of Colchester United. Organiser Katie Skingle of Kat Creativ PR said: "It was a huge success and everyone had great fun. We were all delighted to see the response from other businesspeople in Colchester. There were more than 200 people at the ball and we were able to hand over a cheque for £5,730."

Last year was brilliant, too. The ball was hosted by Sam Vangeen of Heart FM, and more than £4,000 being raised at the Stoke-by-Nayland Club. Attractions included stilt-walkers, lookalikes, fire-breathers and a charity auction run by Peter Sleigh, Colchester United's stadium announcer.

The business group has also held awareness raising events including an information stall at the Early Learning Centre toy shop in the Culver Square, Colchester.

Katie said: "Our first two years have been superb. I want to thank every one of my friends in the business community for caring enough to give their time and money.

Money raised has already helped the Essex Young Witness Project, a service provided by the NSPCC to children having to appear in court. Very often children are scared, confused and – without the support of the NSPCC – completely alone.

Help the business group fund the witness project so that it can help more children ... join the business group or come to the ball.