A LOVE of Lambretta scooters has inspired Darlington’s Mayor to host an Italian Job themed ball this year.

Mayor Paul Baldwin has been passionate about Lambrettas for almost 40-years and has enlisted the help of Darlington College art students to bring his vision of a mod-inspired Mayor’s ball to life.

The students have worked on promotional posters for the event at the Dolphin Centre on October 19 and will display an exhibition of artwork on the night based on the theme.

Guests will enjoy a three-course meal and entertainment includes live performances by Mod Revue, a live mod/ska tribute band, plus award-winning guitarist Anthony Davison, the Ian Gee road show disco and caricaturist Mark Hadlett.

Mayor Baldwin said: “I am delighted to be hosting the Mayor’s Ball.

“The event is a wonderful opportunity to help raise money for my nominated charities of St Teresa’s Hospice and the Great North Air Ambulance – two charities which work so hard to make a difference to people’s lives.

“I am truly grateful for all the hard work that has gone into preparing for this year’s event from the fabulous promotional artwork created by students from Darlington College through to the support from our sponsors Nattrass and the organisational skills of the events managers at the Dolphin Centre in what is a busy year for them as they celebrate the centre’s 30th anniversary.”

Tickets to the ball cost £50 and are available from Hazel Watson on 01325 387732 or 07967822186 or e-mail hazel.watson@darlington.gov.uk