IN PICTURES: Red Cross London Ball

The British Red Cross held its annual London Ball at The Room, a temporary events venue opposite the National Theatre on Wednesday, World Aids Day. The lavish Indian themed ball, 'Yaksha -Yakshi: Doorkeepers to the Divine' was a spectacular and colourful event celebrating India's vibrant culture and traditions. The money raised by the £300-a-head event will aid vital humanitarian work, including HIV/AIDS projects, that the Red Cross supports in the UK and overseas.

Former EastEnders star Martine McCutcheon

Socialite Tamara Beckwith

Guests expected to attend the ball included; Nancy Dell'Olio, model Jodie Kidd, TV's Trinny Woodall and Susanna Constantine, Rolling Stone Charlie Watts, singer Kate Bush, fashion designer Julien Macdonald, and Tamara Beckwith. Snake charmers and contortionists added to the exotic atmosphere and guests could have their bodies decorated by Ash Kumar, the world's leading Henna artist.
 

Members of the Arsenal football team

Fashion designer Julien Macdonald (centre)

James Johnstone, Chairman of the London Ball, said: "The Red Cross London Ball has established itself as being one of the most exciting and successful charity events in the London calendar – with 'Yaksha – Yakshi: Doorkeepers to the Divine' I hope to surpass all expectations. We raised a staggering £1 million in 2003, a figure I hope to beat this year". Johnstone adds, "It will be a beautiful and fun-packed evening that our guests will remember for a very long time, and all money raised will make a vital difference to the lives of vulnerable people around the world."