WE'RE HAVING A BALL TO HELP GOOD CAUSES

SWINDON’S Charity Ball is back for its 25th anniversary year – and good causes in the town are being sought to reap the rewards of the fundraiser.

Founded by the Rotary Club of Swindon, the event held at the Marriott hotel in Old Town has to date raised £640,000 for more than 50 local charities with donations ranging from £1,000 to £49,000.

Over the years the ball has enjoyed the support of many local businesses including Zurich, Nationwide and NPower as well as Deacons the Jewellers, the Marriott and the Adver.

“It is this support together with everyone who gives of their time so freely that ensures the continuity and success of the charity ball,” said rotarian Tim Hanley, this year’s chairman of the ball’s organising committee.

“Achieving the milestone of 25 years of such wonderful fundraising for local charities and organisations is something that Swindon should be justly proud of and we want to celebrate this with a spectacular anniversary Charity Ball in 2013.”

The event has been titled The Glitter Ball and will take place on May 11.

This year it is seeking to particularly raise money for local children’s charities.

Last year a Vegas-themed night raised money for Swindon Women’s Refuge, Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon, North Wilts Group of the Motor Neurone Disease Association and Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis.

The bash saw the guests swaying to the sounds of the West End’s Rat Pack band.

But next year’s event will feature a big surprise which is being kept under wraps by the organisers.

An application form is printed here if you wish your organisation to be considered as a beneficiary.

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CHARITY BONANZA: Local charities receive their cheques from proceeds from last year’s Charity Ball