Persian new year celebrations

The annual Norouz (Persian new year) black tie charity ball, organised by Niyaz supporters, was held at the glamorous Lowry Hotel, Manchester. Niyaz is a not-for-profit Cheshire-based group that raises money for children’s charities in all regions of Iran. A champagne reception greeted over 250 guests and a band of traditional Persian musicians kept everyone entertained into the small hours. A raffle and auction, which featured impressive prizes such as exclusive Wayne Rooney signed football goods, raised just over £9,000 for Niyaz’s work.