The Rotary Club of Ilkley has relaunched the Holly Ball with a 12-week countdown to the event.

Rotarians Chris Woodhead and Vernon Young, with support from Ilkley businessman Richard Wellock, are behind the new-look event, which will be held at the Craiglands Hotel on Saturday, December 14, with all funds raised going to the Skipton-based children’s charity Principle Trust.

Chris, who has attended every Holly Ball since 2009, said the Rotarians were keen to continue the legacy left by Fiona Mann, who had organised the event for the last 26 years, and have a target of raising £10,000 over the next three years.

“We were all disappointed when Fiona declared that last year would be her final Holly Ball and pledged between us that we wouldn’t let all her fantastic efforts go to waste.

“This is a new era for the Holly Ball but one which is built on an incredible foundation of over 25 years of a spectacular local fundraising event.”

This year’s ball will remain at the Craiglands Hotel but will feature food and drink from local suppliers including Sykes Farm, in Wetherby, and fine wines from Martinez.

“Our aim is to create an evening that incorporates the best of Ilkley – from food and drink to entertainment,” added Chris, an Ilkley resident and director of Silsden-based Advanced Actuators Ltd.

Mike Davies, founder and chairman of the Principle Trust said the money raised will go towards the purchase of a third holiday home in Marton Mere, near Blackpool, giving even more underprivileged and disadvantaged children the opportunity to enjoy a holiday.

“We thank the Rotary Club of Ilkley for choosing The Principle Trust as their main charity beneficiary from the Holly Ball,” said Mike.

“We are proud to offer families within Yorkshire, who do not have the funds to enjoy a holiday, a well-deserved break, enjoyment, The Holly Ball's main sponsor is Ilkley's Virtual College which is in its fourth year of sponsorship and is donating £1,000.activities and excitement.”

Holly Ball tickets are £45 per person and include a champagne reception, a three course dinner and live music from Sean Finch & the Rogues of Rhythm. Email chriswoodhead21@hotmail.com and follow the Holly Ball Twitter on @hollyballilkley.