Moulin Rouge themed charity ball is being held at Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa

Sep 30 2009 by Gemma Jaleel, Heswall News

A GALA charity ball with a Moulin Rouge theme is being held in aid of Wirral Autistic Society – featuring an award-winning band who have performed with Bob Geldof and Jools Holland.

Money raised on the night will go towards a £1.3m appeal to build a much-needed respite centre for the society.

After a red carpet arrival on the night guests will be greet-ed by a team of Moulin Rouge dancers.

Mary McNally, wife of John McNally, leader and founder member of the 60s band The Searchers, said: “The respite centre will be on the Wirral, but will be the only facility specially designed for people with autism in the whole of the North of England and will offer support to families throughout Merseyside and beyond.”

The black tie event is being organised by Mary McNally and Morag Antrobus at Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa for the charity’s 40th anniversary appeal.

The ball, with drinks reception and three-course dinner is on Saturday.

“Having a family member with autism is incredibly stressful and makes virtually every aspect of family life, such as taking a short break, or even having time for an evening out, an impossibility.

“Those attending will be making a real difference to the lives of people with autism and their families.”

l Tickets are £40 each from Mary on 0151-924-7310 or nannymc. mcnally@googlemail.com