TIME is running out to get a ticket to the eagerly anticipated ‘Pink Ball’ due to be held in Launceston Town Hall on Saturday, February 22, in memory of one of Launceston’s first — and finest —Tesco managers.

Beverly Best worked at the Tesco store since it opened 25 years ago. She sadly passed away from Motor Neurone Disease earlier this year and those who knew her best decided to hold an event in her memory.

Shelley Vanstone of Tesco worked with Bev for 25 years. She said: “She was a lovely lady and an excellent manager who made a lasting impact on many people’s lives.

“Sadly she passed away from MND earlier this year and we thought it fitting to do something in her memory.”

She added: “She was of course a manager but also a friend, we both started at Tesco 25 years ago when the store opened!”

Shelley has teamed up with the Cornwall branch of Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) and, with the help of Karen Lang from the association, is working hard to create a fitting tribute to Bev’s life. Shelley said: “Bev loved pink so we came up with the idea of a Pink Ball, an evening to remember Bev and raise funds for the Cornwall branch of MNDA.

“Beverley was a very caring lady who made a huge impact on so many people’s lives, we thought it would be a lovely way to remember her and raise awareness and funds for MNDA at the same time.”

She added: “We hope that everyone will embrace the pink theme, though by how much is down to individual choice!”

Plans are well underway with the ticket only event scheduled to take place in the town hall later this month.

Shelley said: “Plans for the ball are going well, we have sold over 100 tickets and have room for about 30 more. It’s £30 per person for a two course hot meal by Something Nice Catering (Judith Scott) and bar and disco by Tim Coleman.”

In the run up to the ball, Shelley and Karen held a fundraiser in Tesco’s Launceston store for MNDA on Saturday, February 1, raising £304.68. Karen and Shelley expressed their thanks to the customers of Tesco who donated and to those who have already secured their Pink Ball tickets.

Karen said: “Your money stays locally as sadly Cornwall MND committee are helping many, many people living in Cornwall and especially North Cornwall coping with the disease. I am privileged to work for the association and get to direct the funds to the people in most need and thank you all for your generosity.”

She added: “Tickets are still available to our Pink Ball in the town hall on Saturday the 22nd of February also raising money for the Cornwall MNDA in memory of the fabulous Beverley Best — it’s going to be an amazing evening.”

To purchase a ticket contact Shelley at Tesco Launceston or Karen at Launceston Hospital.