DEVIZES Mayor Jane Burton has decided not to stage this year's ball and civic dinner because of rising costs.

Mrs Burton said that the annual Mayor's Ball had suffered from rising costs and lowering attendances so she had decided to pull the plug on this year's event.

She said: "It was not an easy decision to make, as I know the stalwarts really enjoy it, but I could not in all conscience warrant the expense.

"The main reason being over the last few years, costs have gone up and the attendance has gone down. The shortfall has to be met by the mayoral allowance and this comes from the town council coffers, which comes ultimately from the public purse.

"There seemed to be no justification for this. I'm a great traditionalist, and I hate breaking with tradition so I sincerely hope when the economic climate has an up turn future mayors will reinstate the ball."

She said that rather than breaking with tradition it was putting tradition on hold. She said: "In this national economic climate it is not a viable event, and therefore I cannot justify the expense.

"I apologise to those who enjoy this event,but I am sure that they will understand my reasoning."

But the mayor's appeal quiz night will go ahead at the town hall on February 23 from 7.30pm. Don Jones will be quiz master and it costs £12 for a team of four.

To sign up contact the town hall on 01380 722160.