THE mayor of Darlington is guaranteed to be wearing a unique outfit when she makes her entrance at her charity ball tonight. Coun Dot Long will wear a dress designed by a student at Queen Elizabeth sixth form college.

She invited students on the BTEC diploma in foundation studies and second year A-level art and design students to create a show-stopping frock.

The only restrictions they faced were a ban on white and navy blue and the cost - a maximum of £10. The gown had to be long and it should show off the mayor's petite figure.

Thirty-two students came up with a design, from which Coun Long selected one to be made into the dress she will wear at the ball.

Coun Long chose Alison Bolton's design, which remains under wraps until tonight's event at the Dolphin centre.

Principal tutor Chris Watson said the £10 budget was a good test for the students: "The emphasis has been on imagination and creativity and using different materials. Once they're working they'll be faced with retail prices and clients' budgets so although it's a small amount this time, it's taught them how to create something on a limited budget."

Coun Long, who has taken the theme of creative arts for her mayoral year, added: "I think we should define the arts very widely and fashion and the exploration of textiles should be part of that.

"The staff at the college have been wonderful and I'm delighted at the way the students have responded."

l Guests at tonight's charity ball will help raise thousands of pounds for local charities by playing roulette and blackjack with fun money. It is hoped that the sponsorship of the prize roulette by audio visual suppliers, Saville, will tempt them into raising even more than is anticipated