This year's NORCAS charity ball raised �8,000 for children who are affected by and caring for parents who are misusing drugs or alcohol.

It was held in aid of the charity's Too Much Too Young appeal at Sprowston Manor Hotel.

The evening was attended by more than 170 guests and raised more than �8,000 from the raffle giveaway and ticket sales – which included some sought-after prizes.

It included former World Cup-winning England footballer Sir Geoff Hurst's 'England Dream Team' signed print, two tickets to a recording of television quiz show QI donated by host Stephen Fry, a wine tasting experience, gym membership, a signed Norwich City shirt, use of an apartment in Turkey, a year's golf membership, tea for two with MP Chloe Smith, an activity day at Eaton Vale and a year's membership at Spirit Health Club.

In October 2010, NORCAS, which works with those who misuse drugs, alcohol and gambling, launched the Too Much Too Young appeal to raise funds for the estimated 30,000 children across Norfolk and Suffolk who are affected by and caring for parents who are misusing drugs or alcohol.

The campaign is the first public appeal NORCAS has run throughout its 32-year history and following its success, the charity has now recruited a substance misuse worker to work with these young people.

The role will involve providing one-to-one support for the young person concerned, facilitating group work and building relationships with other agencies who currently work with affected others in the county.

In some cases children as young as five are being put in the position of trying to take care of their parents, often being forced to skip school to look after them and deal with their addictions.

Head of fundraising at NORCAS, Matt Wilson, said: 'We are extremely grateful to everyone who attended the NORCAS ball in aid of the 'Too Much Too Young' appeal making it a huge success.

'There is not currently sufficient statutory funding available to support children in Norfolk and Suffolk below the age of 16 who are living with parents who misuse drugs and alcohol.

'The �8,000 raised via the charity ball will go will go towards the appeal and giving these children back their childhoods.'

Having invested �1,000 to get it off the ground, the appeal has now reached a total of �70,000.

Are you organising a charity event in the Norwich area? Call Local Life editor David Freezer on 01603 772418 or email david.freezer@archant.co.uk