DETAILS about one of the highlights of the Southampton social spring calendar have been announced.

Visitors to St Mary’s Stadium on March 18 will be putting on their best dancing shoes for the mayor’s Charity Ball – raising thousands of pounds for some of the city’s most worthy causes.

ABP Southampton is sponsor of this year’s event which has a Strictly Come Dancing theme.

The ABP mayor’s Ball, will feature a three-course meal, live entertainment from Bournemouth-based band Bourne to Swing, charity auction, compered by former radio presenter and entertainer Mike Osman, and strictly special guests.

The event is to raise money for the chosen charities of this year’s mayor of Southampton, councillor Linda Norris.

They are the Rose Road Association, Southampton Air Cadets and the Saints Foundation.

Cllr Norris also wants to help smaller Southampton charities and 10 per cent of the pot will be used for a community chest which smaller organisations can request to go into a draw for.

Eight awards of £250 and 20 of £100 will be handed out at the end of the mayor’s term in May.

Previously she has said the cash is “purely for Southampton charities”.

Councillor Norris said: “As Admiral of the Port, I am absolutely delighted to have ABP Southampton as headline sponsor of my ball.

“It is going to be a glittering event – the more sequins the better – for causes very close to my heart and those of the people in Southampton. I urge you all to buy your tickets quickly, as they will go fast.”

Clive Thomas, port manager, said: “We are thrilled to sponsor the Mayor’s Charity Ball this year. It is set to be a truly special night in Southampton. The port is dedicated to supporting the Mayor in her endeavours to raise as much money as possible for three of the region’s worthiest causes and to put on a spectacular night.”

Tickets are on sale now at a cost of £50 per person. Tables of eight and 10 are available and smaller numbers will be catered for. To book a place, email mayorsoffice@southampton.gov.uk or call 023 8083 2434.