It’s an ill wind…

And it really was! The mini-tornado that tore through parts of Vale da Telha and Paisagem Oceano in the hours before dawn today has forced us to call off Saturday’s Gala Ball.

As many of you will already have noticed the strong winds tore some holes in the roof of the Marquee at the Hotel Vale da Telha where we were holding this annual event, and the heavy rain accompanying the winds also flooded the interior.

There was also some damage to the entrance canopy and the hotel’s glass porch was demolished. It is not clear how long it will take before the tented structure can safely be repaired and re-opened for business…if at all.

The “twister” also caused damage to some residential properties in the area before running a path down to the lake and disappearing.

Unfortunately, it leaves us with no alternative but to cancel this year’s event and we can only apologise for the disappointment and inconvenience which will result from this decision taken at such short notice.

But we are sure you will appreciate we were left with no other options but to take this action.

Money will, naturally, be refunded by the four ticket sellers, Ian Bedford, Kate Lang, Rick Hursthouse and Dave Ogborn who of course have details of all the individuals who had bought tickets from them.

It is hoped another Ball will be held early next year when any repaired or replaced marquee will be opened…

AMOVATE ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE.