After prom plans were cancelled at Devizes School because of the uncertainty around Covid a group of parents took matters into their own hands to organise their own.

Final year pupils enjoyed a dazzling night they are sure to remember at Bowood Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort last week.

Local businesses also sprang into action to offer their services to ensure the Year 11 students had a memorable prom.

Organiser Emily Webb explained: “My friends Rachael Kimber, Rose Rossi and I pulled together and set up a GoFundMe page to raise money.

"People shared it everywhere and we made £2,000 towards it.”

 

Sparkler fun Photo by Amber Louise Photography

Sparkler fun Photo by Amber Louise Photography

 

An interview on Radio Wiltshire led to companies getting in touch, who offered their services for free or discounted prices.

Trevor Whichello at Distant Thunder provided fireworks, Paul Weymouth from Light Fantastic decorated the venue and Young Ones Disco promotions provided their services, and graphic designer Gretchen Samuelson designed tickets, flyers and social media countdowns.

 

 Amber Louise Photography

Amber Louise Photography

 

Organisers also want to thank Suzanne Lank at Bowood Hotel, Kenny Welch and Bruce Burry from Elite Promotions, Holly Stone at DJ High Energy Holz, Lee Stone at Sweet Cart, Artur Machowski at Artbooth photography, Steve Mander at Phoenix Special Occasion Hire, Amber Louise Photography, Tim Woodward of ISON security and South West Flower Walls: Flower Wall Hire.

Callum Harris and Lani Alvarez were crowned prom king and prom queen.

“The generosity was just amazing,” said Emily. “I still can’t quite believe how well everything went.

"They had surprise fireworks and sparklers, it was just amazing to see them so happy after everything they’ve dealt with during the pandemic.

 

Dressed to impress outside Bowood House Photo by Amber Louise Photography

Dressed to impress outside Bowood House Photo by Amber Louise Photography

 

“Bowood even sent an email after to thank all the students for being so well behaved, it was fantastic.”

As part of the preparations, money had been raised to ensure every student could afford a ticket.

Negative covid tests were required for entry and hand sanitiser was scattered across the venue.