IT'S just weeks to go before the night of nights. And as organisers of this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball prepare to create glitter and magic, JAMES MARSTON speaks to two women charged with making it a night to remember.

James Marston

IT'S just weeks to go before the night of nights. And as organisers of this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball prepare to create glitter and magic, JAMES MARSTON speaks to two women charged with making it a night to remember.

WITH just two tables left and a month to go, a top London events firm and Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball organisers have today announced a number of superb auction prizes for the glittering occasion.

Bridget York and Lois Beaumont, directors of occasion planning firm Entire Affair, are to offer a luxury hamper from exclusive London store Fortnum and Mason.

Entire Affair creative director Bridget York said: “We are delighted to be involved with the organisation of this year's Press Ball.

“The hamper is a luxury Fortnum and Mason food hamper presented in a lovely wicker hamper with the Fortnum & Mason wording on the outside, perfect for summer picnics. It is filled with a variety of quality food items and preserves.”

Held at the Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, on Friday, June 20, music and dancing are followed by an auction and tombola with prizes donated by a number of businesses and organisations. There are just two remaining tables remaining to be snapped up by business leaders keen to be seen at the prestigious event.

Since the inaugural ball in 1997 the event has raised thousands for charity and this year the Press Ball organising committee has chosen the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and Disability Care Enterprise as the 2008 beneficiaries.

Miss York said: “Entire Affair has also donated a number of items for the raffle and auction including a Nick Faldo signed cap and signed book, framed photos of Jonny Wilkinson in action, golf shirts, and a case of wine to help raise significant funds for two deserving charities.

“We have also donated the cost of the cerise pink chair sashes for the evening as we felt that they will really complete the overall look of the room.

“With just one month to go the ball is really coming together, local companies have been so supportive by providing amazing auction and raffle prizes and by of course taking tables for the evening.

With this year's Champagne Ball theme and legendary group The Original Buck's Fizz, the Press Ball is expected to be the last word in luxury and sophistication.

Bridget said: “We have been long-standing supporters of the Press Ball for many years and each year we try to bring something different and exciting to the evening that guests won't have experienced.

“It is a big responsibility. If we don't get our job right and people are disappointed then less money will be raised for charity.”

Seen overseeing the party during the evening, Bridget and Lois organise everything from the table decorations to the auction prizes from the flowers to the entertainment.

Bridget said: “The Press Ball is always a great night and lots of fun. The evening will be a grand occasion, let's hope that we raise enough money to make a real difference to families in Suffolk.”

Regularly and strongly supported by the county's business community, the Press Ball is once again sponsored by Ipswich firm Call Connection.

- If you would like to join the guests and take a table at the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball contact Miss York on 07961 430599.