Cllrs put off buy the cost of Mayor's ball
January 22, 2010 4:00 PM
In Royal Borough Observer - Online
In Royal Borough Observer - Online
THE Mayor's charity ball for the Royal Borough is proving to be too expensive even for councillors.
A number of councillors have said they will have to miss out on the annual event after ticket prices doubled from previous years to £95 per head.
The extra cost of the ticket pays for the staging costs of the glamorous black tie ball at Ascot Racecourse in March, which is being attended by Prince Philip, rather then putting pounds in the pockets of charities.
Old Windsor councillor Eric Wiles, who was mayor of the borough in 2005 and 2006, said: "It is ridiculously dear, you will also be expected to contribute to the raffles and auction, which will add to the total cost. It is a very nice event held in aid of good causes but the price is just too high this time.
"I know a number of other councillors and local businesses won't be going either, a lot of businesses are going through hard times at the moment. It's an event for those who can pay the price."
The news comes as the borough announced this week it plans to cut 96 jobs.
Independent councillor John Fido said: "It doesn't look great to hold such an highly priced and extravagant event when people are losing jobs. I have been going to this event since the 60s but I won't be going this time because it costs too much."
Half of the proceeds raised solely through auctions, raffle and fundraising activities on the night, will go to The Bobby Moore Fund and 50 per cent will be split between Cancer Research, Help for Heroes, WAMDSAD, Thames Hospicecare and the Alexander Devine Children's Cancer Trust.
Cllr Fido added: "All five charities are very good causes but I think it is a bit too ambitious to put them all in one pot. I will be happy to support these charities individually and I do, but I won't be doing it through this event."
Former mayor Dorothy Kemp was the borough's first citizen in 2008-09 said she too thought prices were too high.
A spokeswoman for the borough said: "This is a prestigious black tie event but it is most definitely not exclusive. Tickets are available to anyone who would like to enjoy a special night out and the £95 ticket price reflects the various elements that will help make it a memorable evening: champagne reception, three-course meal, free wine and entertainment, all at a top venue."
Last year the Mayor's Ball raised £5,500 for charity.