BOSSES of a charity set up in memory of a little girl who battled a brain tumour say they are “gutted” after cancelling their charity ball saying major works at the Cliffs Pavilion would ruin the “wow factor”.
The Indee Rose Trust, run by founder Jane Allen, had organised a “disco glitter ball” event for Saturday, September 28.
The charity was established by the parents of Canvey youngster Indee Rose Dopson, who died from a brain tumour in June 2009, aged three.
The event would have seen a party held in Westcliff’s Cliffs Pavilion, with live entertainment from legendary DJ Danny Clockwork.
However, the trust says it has cancelled the event after finding out that the Cliffs Pavilion is having major building works.
The works, which are currently underway, aim to create a new two-storey extension with canopy feature for a new entrance.
The trust claims they were not informed works were underway and decided they did not want to “make do.”
A spokesman for the Indee Rose Trust said: “We are absolutely gutted to tell you that we as a charity have decided to cancel this year’s charity ball for The Indee Rose Trust which was taking place on Saturday, September 28.
“We have only found out that the venue who we have used for many years is having major building works from now to next year.
“The work has already started and we were not told anything about this.
“It would disrupt our space and the wow factor would certainly not be there.
“Rather than make do we have decided to cancel.
“We were unaware of any works and we certainly was not updated during recent meetings with the venue so we are very disappointed.
“We will be looking for another venue to hold another ball and we really hope you will be there next year.
“Sorry to you all but this decision is the right one for our Indee’s charity.”
A spokesman for Southend Theatres said: “The much-anticipated refurbishment of the Cliffs began last week.
“Whilst we feel it would be inappropriate to comment on a specific event or client, we can confirm that the venue will remain open throughout the work and we are able to deliver all events as normal.”
Matt Dent, Southend's Labour councillor for culture, tourism and business, has also insisted he has no doubt the theatre "could have delivered their event", citing West End theatre productions and big names heading to the venue despite the works taking place as proof.
“It’s disappointing to hear that the Indee Rose Trust has decided to cancel their September show at the Cliffs Pavilion, citing current refurbishment work as a factor,” he commented.
“Our contractors are carrying out some enabling works, and while there would have been a need for some modifications, there was no doubt that the theatre could have delivered their event.
“Just look at the lineup for the rest of August and September, including David Essex, 101 Dalmatians: The Musical, and Graham Norton, to see that the Cliffs Pavilion will continue to host major events even as the exciting refurbishment works are carried out to enhance the theatre experience for visitors.”
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