DARLINGTON mayor Charles Johnson has urged people to support a charity ball that will benefit good causes across the borough.

Tickets for the mayor’s annual charity ball have been disappointing so far this year, a fact Coun Johnson considers a sign of the times.

He said: “Mayors’ balls are probably not a priority in people’s minds, but as someone who is always keen to push tradition and heritage, and having attended about 25 such events myself, I would like to see it continue without too much change.”

Coun Johnson said a lot of effort has gone into planning this year’s ball, which will take place at the Dolphin Centre, on Friday, October 18.

PR firm Recognition is the event’s main sponsor and has helped fund the event.

Organisers are promising a luxurious evening of entertainment and dining.

Among the entertainment will be performances by a group of Las Vegas-style showgirls and Darlington 1940s singers the Vintage Bells.

There will also be a band and disco, with a string quartet and exhibition featuring old photographs of Darlington in Central Hall.

Coun Johnson added: “All proceeds go to the mayor’s fund and at the end of the mayoral year, it will be distributed to groups that do things for the town.

“There are going to be a number of beneficiaries, all community-led groups.

“The more people we can get to come to the ball, the more we will be able to give to the good causes.”

The evening starts with a drinks reception at 6.45pm, dinner at 7.30pm and concludes at 1am.

Tickets cost £50. To book, call Emma Waring, on 01325-388207, or email emma.waring@darlington.gov.uk