SWINDON Mayor David Wren is staging a works Christmas party for the whole town after he realised that many companies had stopped the festive tradition.

Coun Wren has hired the Liquid and Envy nightclub in the town centre on December 21 and plans to host a party for everyone in Swindon.

He said: “Many office and shop staff don’t have a special Christmas do, so here is the perfect solution – a safe and fun night out with a difference.

“It is about time we put some Christmas cheer back into our lives and this is one way for Swindon to have a great night out.

“I have hired the Liquid and Envy nightclub for a Christmas party, with all profits going into the Mayor’s Charity Fund for my nominated charities.

“Liquid and Envy is a very smart venue with two dance floors and numerous bars, so there’ll be space and music to suit all ages.”

All of the money raised on the night will be split between Coun Wren’s nominated charities – Guide Dogs For The Blind, Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool, Swindon 105.5 and Leaves, a local mental health group and Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group.

He is now calling on local businesses to drum up support with their own staff for the event.

He said: “Ideally I am looking for a representative from all the companies, offices and shops in Swindon, no matter how large or small, who could sell tickets within their organisation and to their friends.

“If individuals or just a small group want tickets they can also contact me directly.”

Entry tickets cost £10, which include free casino chips, and there are also 100 VIP tickets, costing £25, which include a festive buffet and prize raffle draw.

Anyone interested in tickets should contact Coun Wren by emailing him on dwren@swindon.gov.uk.