YOU shall go to the Ball - Preston Mayor's Ball is all set to go ahead this year thanks in part to your favourite free weekly.

The Citizen has stepped in with a generous sponsorship deal after it looked like red tape would stop the traditional dinner dance going ahead. The Co-operative Bank will co-sponsor the April 19 event.

Mayor Terry Cartwright is delighted: "This is the first time the Mayor's Ball has had sponsorship in the form of hard cash. People usually send gifts to be raffled.

"I am delighted to be working in association with the Citizen and I'm pleased that so many local charities will benefit." Citizen editor Naomi Bunting added: "It will be a fitting end to a highly successful year for Councillor Cartwright. The Citizen is delighted to be able to help."

Around 500 guests will join VIPs and visiting dignitaries from across the region at the Ball at the Guild Hall.

They will be serenaded by the Blue Moon Dance Band, sounds of New Orleans from the Silver Bell Band, as well as a lighter accompaniment from youngsters from Ashton-on-Ribble High School.

Mayor and Mayoress Terry and Joyce Cartwright will end their year of office on May 16 when the new Mayor will be sworn in.

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