HOTEL bosses are today celebrating the opening of new spa facilities by donating a luxury spa break for two to the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.

HOTEL bosses are today celebrating the opening of new spa facilities by donating a luxury spa break for two to the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.

A new range of treatments and pampering techniques are now on offer at Ufford Park Hotel, near Woodbridge, after it opened a new thermal suite.

And to coincide with the new facilities, Ufford Park marketing director Tarnia Robertson has pledged to support the annual fundraising press ball.

She said: “We are delighted to be able to support this year's Press Ball.

“We have recently opened our new spa and this event gives us the opportunity to show it off as well as help a deserving Suffolk-based charity at the same time.”

Worth £145 per person, the luxury one-night spa break includes a variety of treatment options at the hotel's spa was well as light lunch, three course evening meal and breakfast.

Held at the sumptuous Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, on June 22, the annual event raises thousands for Disability Care Enterprise (DCE) - a charity which provides specialist equipment for disabled people across the county.

With a mysterious ice ball theme, this year's event promises to be a stunning night to remember.

Ipswich firm Call Connection has agreed to sponsor the event.

Graeme Kalbraier, managing director, said: “I am delighted that Ufford Park is supporting the ball. This is a fantastic auction prize.

“Press Ball 2007 is set to be another successful night for DCE.

“This year's event is already promising to be a fabulous night and I am proud that Call Connection is sponsoring it.”

Carolyne Morey, DCE project director, said: “This is brilliant news. This is an excellent beginning to another successful press ball and I would like to thank Ufford Park for their generous donation.”

Star editor Nigel Pickover said: “We are so grateful to companies and organisations like Ufford Park which dig deep to help make the Press Ball such a resounding success.

“On behalf of all of us the Star I would like to thank the hotel for its kind generosity.”

Would you like to donate an auction prize to the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball? Call Bridget York on 0208 4297530.

INAUGURATED in 1997 by The Evening Star the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball has raised more than a quarter of a million pounds for charity.

A dazzling night which attracts the cream of Suffolk society, preparations are now well under way for a spectacular Press Ball.

Heartthrob and pop star Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet fame will meet and greet guests as they step off the ice blue carpet into a frosty world of shivering fantasy before serenading revellers with his fantastic repertoire of hits, including favourites like Gold and True.

Music, dancing, food and wine will be followed by an auction and tombola with prizes donated by a number of businesses and organisations.

The Press Ball is the biggest source of income for Suffolk Charity Disability Care Enterprise (DCE)

Lord Tollemache, Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, is DCE patron.

DCE was formed in 1988 after Angus McDonald, the father of a disabled daughter, was shocked when he found out the price of specialised equipment.

DCE spends £60,000 to £100,000 a year. The average family receives a grant of about £1,000.

Past Press Ball themes have included James Bond, Black and White, Harry Potter, An Enchanted Evening and Masquerade.

So far, £257,000 has been raised since the balls started in 1997. last year's raised an amazing £40,000.