Rossendale Mayor Hosts Grand Charity Ball to Support Local Causes
March heralds the beginning of the Mayoral Ball season, with numerous mayors across the region organizing their annual charity events. Rossendale is proudly part of this tradition, as the Mayor hosted a spectacular charity ball on Friday, March 20 at The Ashcroft in Whitworth. This evening was a celebration of the mayoral year and a significant fundraiser for three key local charities.
Charities Benefiting from the Event
The Mayor selected three charities to support this year, each making a profound impact in the community:
- Bacup Pride: A dedicated group of volunteers committed to enhancing Bacup. They focus on keeping streets clean, beautifying green spaces with floral displays, and fostering community engagement to care for the local area.
- Carers Link: A charity providing crucial support to carers, offering guidance through social services, funding applications, and combating isolation. It holds personal significance for the Mayor, who experienced its help firsthand when caring for a family member with dementia.
- Kids in Rossendale: An organization dedicated to assisting disadvantaged children in the borough. They provide grants to groups and individuals, distribute Christmas presents to hundreds of children, and are currently collecting Easter eggs for distribution across the valley.
Community Engagements Leading Up to the Ball
In the weeks preceding the ball, the Mayor and Jackie participated in various community events that underscored Rossendale's vibrant spirit:
- On Friday, February 27, they attended the Rossendale Rotary Annual Charter dinner at Queens Bistro in Rawtenstall, celebrating the charity work of Rotary members.
- Tuesday, March 3, saw them at the Hospice Youth Challenge Celebration, where students raised over £10,500 for the hospice. The Mayor presented certificates to winning schools, praising the young people's efforts.
- On Saturday, March 7, they enjoyed an evening with the 2nd Rossendale Scout Band, appreciating the musical talents of local youth.
- Thursday, March 11, included a school assembly at Valley Leadership Academy focusing on young carers. The Mayor presented an award to Bailey, a young carer who acted swiftly to help his sister in a choking emergency.
- Sunday, March 15, featured a viewing of the Rossendale Players' production "A Month Of Sundays," a poignant comedy about elderly relatives.
- Thursday, March 19, began with afternoon tea at Astley Hall with the High Sheriff of Lancashire, discussing ongoing renovations, followed by an evening at Haslingden High School's 50th-anniversary celebration.
The Highlight: Mayor's Charity Ball
The charity ball on March 20 was a resounding success, described by the Mayor as the highlight of the mayoral year. Guests enjoyed delicious food, drinks, and entertainment from the Rossendale Male Voice Choir and singer Arthur Geldard, who got everyone dancing. The Mayor expressed overwhelming gratitude for the support, emphasizing the lasting memories created.
Post-Ball Activities
The following day, the Mayor attended the Cancer Research UK Bacup Spring Fayre, which raised £968.32 through tombolas, stalls, and raffles. That evening, they joined the East Lancashire Downs Syndrome Group Charity Ball at Crow Wood Spa and Hotel, featuring performances, a meal, and fundraising activities like an auction and casino.
This series of events showcases Rossendale's strong community bonds and commitment to supporting local causes through fundraising and engagement.
