IPSWICH: With a week to go until the glittering event one of the world’s top Queen tribute acts has stepped in to take to the stage at this year’s Press Ball.

After a routine hip replacement operation the R&B singer Alexander O’Neal, who was due to perform, was forced to pull out at the last minute.

Organiser Mick Parker said while the 57-year-old is recovering well, doctors have advised him to cancel several dates in the UK.

Fresh from their appearance on the BBC’s The One Show, Queen tribute act Queen B will be on hand to entertain guests at the event on Friday evening.

Mr Parker said: “We all send our best wishes to Alexander O’Neal and hope he gets better soon.

“We are really excited to have Queen B performing, they are arguably the top Queen tribute act in the world and their lead singer Paul Jackson gets rave reviews.

“They regularly play to thousands in arenas across the UK, so should be great to see live. All the planning over the year is now coming to a head.

“There are still tickets available for people to take part in the event.

“It promises to be a fantastic night and an excellent fundraiser, we are hoping to raise more than ever for our selected charities.”

This year’s ball is the 15th organised by The Evening Star and is being held at The Corn Exchange for the first time, where guests will be greeted by the mayor of Ipswich, John Le Grys. The event is raising money for The Cystic Fibrosis Trust, the Ipswich Community Resource Centre, the Mayor’s selected charities and a young footballers’ project at a township in Cape Town.

To get your ticket to one of the most highly-anticipated events in the social calendar call the mayor’s secretary Christine Christensen on 01473 432641.

n Are you raising money for charity? E-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk or call 01473 324788.