The battle lines were drawn. Spreadsheets were swapped for score sheets and thinking hats were firmly on.
Businesses including SVC Solutions, Wood and Disney Accountants and Black Jacket UK event management all vied for glory in the Big Essex Quiz which was organised by us here at KAT Marketing and staged in the beautiful surroundings of Wivenhoe House.
It was a night of tough questions, lively challenges, wicked banter and, above all, great fun.
And we must modestly (but joyfully) declare that our brilliant team were like the cats who got the cream after taking home the honours.
But the real winner from the night was the NSPCC, the fantastic charity which is dedicated to supporting children in need. More than £1,100 was raised thanks to the generosity of everyone involved and the funds will support the charity’s work in Essex including online safety education in schools and colleges.
KAT Marketing MD Katie Skingle said: “We are so grateful to everyone who supported the event and to our outstanding quizmaster Tim Field.
"The atmosphere throughout the night was wonderful. The rivalry was keen but I think everyone had a lot of fun too. We are indebted to everyone who gave up their time to support this very worthy cause.”
She added: “We are proud of being at the heart of the community. The NSPCC is a charity which we have supported for many years and we know the money is crucial to help children who are in particular need.
“We already have our sights set on next year’s quiz and will accept all challengers who want to try to take our crown.”