The event held by Friends of Francis House Preparatory School on Aylesbury Road, Tring, raked in more than £3,000 as a silent auction was held.

Guests bidded for prizes including meals for two at an Oakman Inn restaurant, The Olive Limes and Boxmoor Lodge and donations from businesses including Rumsey's, Cole Flatt & Partners estate agents, Magnolia Flowers, Totality Day Spa, The Natural History Museum in Tring, Tring Brewery and The Rex cinema in Berkhamsted.

There was also an opportunity for children to visit Father Christmas in his grotto and experience face painting, as well as visiting stalls and Friends Cafe and playing games.

Teacher at the school Julie McKay said: "We would like to thanks the Friends of Francis House who set up the whole thing.

"Lots and lots of local businesses were extremely generous and that did raise a lot of money.

"It was even more than last year and in a recession it shows the generosity of our parents."

She said she was pleased there were lots of games for children to play as well, which only cost a few pence.