THE Mayor of Durham's Ball will be held for the first time in the city's new Gala Theatre.

The multi-million pound venue, which opened at the start of the year in the Millennium City complex, is due to take place on Friday, April 19.

The current holder of the office, Labour councillor for Ushaw Moor George Cowper, has used his year in the post to raise money for the Durham City and Chester-le-Street Alzheimer's Group and the Durham Centre for Adults with Learning Difficulties through his Helping Hands Appeal.

The event will run from 7pm to midnight and will include a three-course dinner and wine and dancing to the band In the Mood.

Last year the ball was held on board HMS Invincible, the city's adopted warship, which was berthed on the River Tyne at Newcastle, and attracted a full house.

Coun Cowper said: "I've had a remarkable year as Mayor of Durham during which we've managed to raise many thousands of pounds for my charity, Helping Hands, for the Durham City and Chester-le-Street Alzheimer's Group and the Durham Centre for Adults with Learning Difficulties.

Tickets for the event cost £30 per head and can be obtained from the Mayor's Office at 4 Saddler Street, Durham, or by calling (0191) 301 8846 or (0191) 301 8855.