THE Mayor of Durham's Ball is to be held in the city's new Gala Theatre.

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

The current holder of the mayor's office is George Copwer, the Labour councillor for Ushaw Moor.

He has used his year in office to raise funds 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 ball will run from 7pm to midnight and will include a three-course dinner with wine and dancing to the band In the Mood.

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

Councillor Cowper said: "I have had a remarkable year as Mayor of Durham, during which we have 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.

"There is no better way to crown this year than to celebrate in Durham's fantastic new venue, the Gala, which is a perfect setting for a very special evening."

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