COULD you handle the cut and thrust of the newsroom? Could you get the shot that no other photographer gets? Today The Evening Star is offering one lucky Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball guest the chance to try their hand at working in one of the country's liveliest newsrooms.

COULD you handle the cut and thrust of the newsroom?

Could you get the shot that no other photographer gets?

Today The Evening Star is offering one lucky Ipswich and Suffolk Press Ball guest the chance to try their hand at working in one of the country's liveliest newsrooms.

Whether as a photographer or a reporter, we are able to offer an exciting day shadowing our award-winning hacks as well as our talented snappers as an auction prize at this year's Press Ball.

A never-to-be-forgotten experience you will get a behind the scenes look at how journalists really work, how photographers create those stunning images as well as getting an insider's view on the stories that make that day's paper.

Evening Star news editor Jessica Gallagher said: “We are delighted to welcome the lucky winner to the newsroom. “Journalism is a lively and exciting trade and there is never a dull moment here at the Star.

“We will be asking our reporter for the day to write stories, interview contacts and take part in the news conferences that take place throughout the day.”

Star picture editor Andy Abbott said: “A day behind the lens is an experience you will never forget. Every day is different and you never know what can happen.

“For the amateur photographer, shadowing our experienced team is a great chance to pick up tips and learn more about how we work.”

A dazzling night held at the Hotel Elizabeth, Copdock, on June 22, the Press Ball attracts the cream of Suffolk society. Music, find dining and dancing don't detract from the serious side of the evening to raise money for Disability Care Enterprise (DCE) - a Suffolk-based charity which provides specialised equipment for disabled people.

Carolyne Morey, DCE project director, said: “The Press Ball is the biggest fundraising event for DCE of the year.

“I'd like to say a big thank you to all at The Evening Star for their time and support with this excellent auction prize.”

Ipswich firm Call Connection has generously agreed to sponsor the glittering event.

Graeme Kalbraier, managing director of Call Connection, said: “This is a fabulous auction prize and I'd like to pass on my thanks to all the team at The Evening Star and all who have supported the Press Ball with auction prizes.”

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.

The Press Ball catering statistics include 900 baby carrots, 1,650 potatoes, and 100 bottles of champagne to be served by 50 restaurant and bar staff.

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