WITH less than a week to go until this year's Swindon Marriott Charity Ball, a handful of tickets still remain.

The lavish annual event, backed by the Evening Advertiser, includes a three-course dinner, dancing and a raffle and auction.

The ball has raised some £300,000 for charity since it was launched by Swindon Rotary Club in 1989.

Only 200 tickets are issued for the ball, which takes place on Saturday at the Marriott Hotel, off Marlborough Road. The cost is £70 a head.

Mike Bawden, from Swindon Rotary Club, said: "This is the most prestigious charity ball function in Swindon.

"There will be the opportunity to take part in a raffle with some great prizes donated by local businesses and it should be a wonderful evening."

The ball is expected to raise £20,000 a figure which will be matched by event sponsors the Nationwide.

The charities to benefit this year are: Swindon Arts, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, SMASH Youth Group, St John Ambulance, Oak House and Phoenix Mailing. To inquire about tickets call Swindon 655139.