Event was certainly a fun masquerade

Masquerade Ball in aid of South Ribble Dementia Action Alliance at Leyland Golf Club. Tracy and Michael Dewhurst.

South Ribble Dementia Action Alliance, which is fronted by South Ribble Borough Council, organised a masquerade ball, which took place at Leyland Golf Club.

More than 70 guests attended and raised more than £2,000 through an auction, a raffle and ticket sale.

Among the most sought-after auction lots and raffle prizes was a signed picture of the late Caroline Aherne, which went for £110.

Mayor of South Ribble Councillor Linda Woollard with Consort Alistair Woollard

Proceeds will go to Lancaster University’s Defying Dementia project, which conducts research into conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Motor Neuron Disease. Dr Penny Foulds, of Lancaster University, spoke about the research and treatments for Alzheimer’s, spurring people on to donate.

Guests also enjoyed a Michael Buble tribute act, followed by a disco. BBC Radio Lancashire’s John Clayton was MC for the evening, which was catered by Slaters Catering.

Special guests included the Mayor of South Ribble, Coun Linda Woollard and her consort, husband Alistair, as well as the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth.

The event was supported by local businesses including Leyland, including Leyland DAF, Birchall Blackburn, 3 Media, Leyland Leader, Brian Pilkington Estate Agents and Ad Options.

L-r Anna Nodwell, Jennifer Gadson, Laura Rigg, Beverley Yates, Lucy Fowler and Anna-Marie Knipe from Birchall Blackburn Law, Leyland

Maria Desmond, chairman of South Ribble Dementia Action Alliance, says: “I have seen the research by the team at Lancaster University and I believe it can find a cure for early onset dementia.

“The evening was a great success.

“Everybody got into the spirit we intended, wearing their masks.

“It was a truly wonderful community event and that is what is special about Leyland.”

Mayor of South Ribble, Coun Linda Wollard, says: “It was a wonderful evening in recognition of a fabulous cause and we were thrilled to support it.

“Working with the Alliance through the  South Ribble Partnership, the council is totally committed to making South Ribble a dementia-friendly borough.

“And I am proud that staff played a key role in organising this event.

“They also helped organise a special event the day before the ball, which gave those who care for people with dementia access to a wide range of services. I was blown away by their dedication.”