The Mayor's Ball at Preston Guild Hall

Ballgowns and black ties were the order of the night as partygoers danced the night away at the Mayor's Ball. The annual charity event saw around 250 people pack out Preston's Guild Hall for an evening of entertainment.

Revellers joined Mayor Christine Abram for a four-course meal and big band hits from the Northern Jazz Orchestra. Singer Frankie Paris put the swing into the night with some classic Rat Pack hits. And Fever Dance children's dance group also put on a show-stopping performance to entertain the audience.

The evening of entertainment was compered by Rock FM DJ and Evening Post columnist Gemma Dee.

Gemma, who sang the national anthem at the event, said: "It was a spectacular evening, very glitzy and glamourous. There was a whole mix of people, which was lovely to see."

The glam cocktail dresses and tuxedos were in keeping with the ball's Hollywood theme.

View a slideshow of images from the Mayor's Ball here

Menus were in the style of movie directors' clapper boards and the 25 tables were decked out in black, gold and silver decor. The Mayor even handed out 'Oscars' to people who had helped her during her year in office.

All the proceeds from sales of the £35 tickets plus a raffle, tombola and an auction will be donated to the Mayor charities – CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) and Preston Women's Refuge.

Mrs Abram said: "CRY and Preston Woman's Refuge are both very worthwhile causes. Without the help and support of people who make generous donations, they would struggle to carry on their good work here in Preston. There is always a superb atmosphere at the evening with excellent food, singing and music."

Lancashire Evening Post - 7th April 2008