A CHARITY ball at York Racecourse organised by Caroline's Rainbow Foundation raised more than £15,000 to help young travellers abroad.

Marjorie Stuttle, who set up the charity following the murder of her 19-year-old daughter, Caroline, in Bundaberg, Australia, said she was thrilled by the response.

More than 500 people packed into the Voltigeur Suite for the event, which included a casino, charity auction, raffle and spectacular fireworks display.

Items which went under the hammer included a painting of York Minster by Caroline's father, Alan Stuttle, and Vince Taylor jewellery.

"It was a such a wonderful night," said Mrs Stuttle.

"The fireworks were just the most amazing thing I've ever seen." The foundation is set to release a safety DVD for young people preparing to travel abroad.

Updated: 10:52 Monday, November 10, 2003