This was a fantastic night for Loreto students celebrating the end of their studies. The students marked the occasion with a glamorous ball at one of Manchester’s top hotels. More than 350 students and staff, dressed in fabulous outfits, were present for the end of year ball at the historic four star Midland Hotel.

Students started the night with a sophisticated fruit cocktail reception in the beautiful listed building which is regarded as one of Manchester’s architectural treasures. They were entertained by nimble-fingered magicians who left everyone baffled with their amazing tricks. After being guided to their own function room, the Alexander Suite, they enjoyed a delicious meal. The first course consisted of Pan Fried Breast of Chicken, Sauté Lyonnaise Potatoes, Carrot and Swede and Port Wine Jus. The indulgent desert was Sticky Toffee Pudding with a Toffee Sauce and coffee with mints.

It was an opportunity to relax and share enjoyable conversation whilst savouring the high quality food. Then the serious part of the evening began with a wonderful selection of music from our regular ‘Ibiza’ DJ. The music was enticing enough to capture the attention of both staff and students and before long the room was filled with the energy of dancing, laughter and pure delight of the students - and of the staff who joined them on the dance floor. Even those who adopted the role of spectators were caught up in the infectious joy of the evening.

Mrs Kelly, the senior tutor who helped to organise the event, said, “What a great location and the DJ was unbelievably good as usual. The dance floor was packed with students and staff thoroughly enjoying themselves. It has to be the best student ball in Manchester without a doubt.” Mrs Kelly was assisted in the organisation of the Ball by Upper Sixth students on the Ball Committee which is part of the Loreto’s Student Council. This is the fourth Loreto Ball at the Midland Hotel which is famous for being the meeting place of Charles Stewart Rolls and Frederick Henry Royce leading to the formation of Rolls-Royce Limited in 1906. More recent celebrity visitors include Paul McCartney, the Spice Girls and the Beckhams.