IT'S just days to go now before the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball. As the finishing touches are made to the night of nights, organisers have today announced a further fabulous auction prize to be sold to the highest bidder during the glittering evening.

IT'S just days to go now before the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball.

As the finishing touches are made to the night of nights, organisers have today announced a further fabulous auction prize to be sold to the highest bidder during the glittering evening.

Top holiday company Centre Parcs is offering one lucky guest the chance to enjoy a midweek or weekend break for a family or group of up to six people.

Inaugurated in 1997 by The Evening Star, the Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball has raised more than a quarter of a million pounds for chosen charity Disability Care Enterprise (DCE) - a Suffolk-based organisation that helps provide equipment for disabled people across the county.

The winning bidder can choose from parcs in Suffolk, Nottinghamshire, Wiltshire or Cumbria. Offering a huge variety of activities including walking, riding, swimming, watersports, Centre Parcs is a fantastic holiday destination the whole family can enjoy.

Simon Kay, public relations manger for Centre Parcs, said: “We are delighted to be supporting this year's Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball. We have supported the event for a number of years and seen first hand the work of DCE in the community.

“We hope the guests have a great night and raise as much as possible for the charity.”

A dazzling night held at the Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, on June 22, the Press Ball attracts the cream of Suffolk society.

And as preparations get under way for this year's Ice Ball theme, the 2007 event is expected to be the biggest and best yet. Organisers have secured the services of heart-throb pop star Tony Hadley in a massive coup for what has become the highlight of the county's social calendar.

DCE project director Carolyne Morey said: “The Press Ball is the biggest fundraising event for DCE of the year and every penny raised goes directly to helping those people that need our help. I'd like to say a big thank you to Centre Parcs for their fantastic contribution.”

Graeme Kalbraier, managing director of Press Ball sponsors Call Connection, said: “Over the years I have seen first hand how the Press Ball can change people's lives. I'd like to pass on my thanks to Centre Parcs for their continued support. Their contribution it will make a big difference.”

Do you know a child or family helped by DCE? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.

1997-£3,000

1998-£6,000

1999-£21,000

2000-£35,000

2001-£33,000

2002-£40,000

2003-£26,000

2004-£31,000

2005-£22,000

2006-£40,000

Total so far-£257,000