'Mayor's big bash just too expensive'
The Mayor of the Royal Borough has hit back at criticism that his charity ball is overpriced by revealing that Prince Philip will be in attendance.
Organisers of the annual black tie event have been slammed by owners of small business in the area, with many claiming they will forced to miss the ball after ticket prices were doubled to £950 per table.
A number of independent businesspeople in the borough are unconvinced by the substantial price hike of the dinner and dance evening which takes place at Ascot Racecourse in March and includes a champagne reception, a three-course meal and live entertainment for 300 guests.
David McKinlay, who owns Windsor PR agency MJ Communication Ltd, said: "I was offered the chance to buy a ticket and simply responded 'it's a bit out of my league', it's quite a lot of money and there is no way I'll be attending especially in this current climate. From what I understand many will struggle to attend."
Secretary of the Windsor Chamber of Commerce Jon Morton-Bell said: "It is way over the odds and we are concerned a lot of small businesses will be excluded. My chamber is even struggling to put a table together."
It is hoped that news of the royal guest at the charity function will drum up interest, however, business leaders are adamant that the event could suffer unless the £95 cost of tickets, twice as much as last year, is reduced.
Royal Borough Mayor, Cllr Jesse Grey, this week moved to defend the price by pointing out that half of all proceeds will be split between five charities, and that he is considering reducing prices for smaller businesses.
He said: "I understand people might find it a bit pricey but this year will include champagne and wine. It will be quite a grand affair with a royal visitor and entertainment provided by a military band and a world ballroom champion. I will consider reducing prices in special cases, I try to do what's best for the community."
The proceeds from the ball will be split between The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research, Help for Heroes, WAMDSAD, Thames Hospice-care and the Alexander Devine Children's Cancer Trust.
Friday, 15th January, 2010 9:00am