SPONSORS are needed from the Swindon business community to help make this year's Charity Ball a fundraising success.

Everything from the band to the decorations for the room are in need of sponsorship to ensure every penny of the money raised at the May 13 event goes to good causes in the town.

Tickets are also up for sale, at £800 for a table of 10.

This year's event has a circus theme. The ballroom of the Marriott Hotel in Pipers Way will transform into a Big Top, complete with stunning circus acts for the black tie event.

Now in its 29th year, the event founded by the Rotary Club of Swindon and the Swindon Advertiser, has raised a remarkable £770,000 for more than 50 local charities.

The proceeds from all raffle and auction prizes - which can also be match funded - will go to this year’s chosen charities: Swindon Restore, Swindon 10-18 Project (STEP), Swindon Therapy Centre for MS, Prime Theatre, the Open Door Centre and MHA Music Therapy Appeal.

As well as the circus acts and big top there will be live music keeping guests entertained on the night.

Charity ball committee chairman Adam Flint, who is also general manager of the Marriott, said he was looking forward to the spectacular event.

“The Charity Ball is always a great night but this one promises to be one of the best yet, with a big top feel and circus acts to keep everyone entertained.

“Added to that is the bonus of helping to raise money for some fantastic and very deserving local causes,” he said.

“I would urge Swindon business to come forward to book their tables as soon as possible and help back this very worthwhile event.”

In the run up to the ball, the team will organise a series of fundraisers including a golf day on Friday, March 31.

Previous years have seen charities such as Dial-A-Ride, Swindon Therapy Centre for MS, Dressability, Swindon &District Samaritans and Hometruths win thousands of pounds worth of funding.

Last year was a record-breaking year for the event, which raised an unprecedented £52,000 for ten organisations including the Olive Tree Café, Swindon 105.5, Swindon Dial a Ride and Headway Swindon and District.

In 2015, charities received grants ranging from £1,500 to £10,000.

The largest donation was made to Swindon Dial a Ride, which received £10,000 while The Olive Tree Cafe was awarded £3,300 towards a new oven.

For details of sponsorship or to buy tickets email susanjharding@btinternet.com or call 01793 813147. Alternatively send to adam.flint@marriott.com.