THE Mayor of Darlington last night hosted a glittering ball that is expected to raise thousands of pounds for charities.

Councillor Stella Robson chose The Magic of Music as the theme for the annual event, held at the town's Dolphin Centre.

The Gainford Goyders, Swingbridge Singers and Darlington Saxophone Quartet provided the entertainment for dozens of guests at the event. All money raised will go to the mayor's nominated charities - Darlington Association on Disability, Family Help Refuge and Darlington Musical Festival.

Students from the town's College of Technology were asked to come up with designs for menus and tables and also created works of art which adorned the room.