AS THE weekend of November remembrance ceremonies approaches, Swindon’s Royal Naval Association has announced details of its much-anticipated black tie ball.

The evening of entertainment will take place at the Village Hotel in West Swindon from 7pm on November 11 and is open to anyone providing tickets are purchased in advance.

The Royal Naval Association proudly boats over 20,000 members worldwide across 300 branches – for many who have served as part of the ‘senior service’ – as well as their friends and relatives – it is a second family.

Whether offering a social meeting place for a drink and to share old stories, or offering welfare advice and a shoulder to lean on, the RNA embodies the comradely qualities of the wider naval service.

But for this remembrance ball event, they are throwing their doors open to veterans of the other two services, their families, other members of the RNA and equally non-members as well.

In conjunction with it being an event to mark remembrance weekend it will also be an opportunity to celebrate the 40th year of the Swindon branch.

Jess Robins, Swindon RNA Social Secretary, said: “There will be a raffle on the night and there will be some great prizes available – Deacons have donated a prize, we’ve got a lovely Thai massage and some other great items.

“There will be a photographer taking pictures that you can purchase on the night, we’ve got a disco and a lovely three course meal too.

“We hope we’ve put something on to suit most people.”

The dress code for the occasion will be black tie or the option of No 1’s for military personnel.

Tickets will cost £40 for veterans and RNA members and £45 for civilians and non-members – the ball is paying for itself so whatever money is left over goes back into the charity.

With the ball taking place on the Friday evening, attendees will have plenty of time to rest up on Saturday before making their way to the cenotaph for the remembrance service on the Sunday morning.

To secure your ticket, you can call 07982722912.