The Archibald Knox Ball in aid of Manx Cancer Help on Saturday September 6th has attracted such overwhelming support a larger venue has had to be secured.
Sponsored by Celton Manx the ball, with joint patrons Katie Melua and James Toseland as guests of honour, will now be held in a marquee in the grounds of the Ballanette Estate, Baldrine.
The charity’s fundraising co-ordinator Ally Martin explained: ‘The combination of our internationally renowned patrons and sponsorship from the respected name of Celton Manx resulted in every table selling out in just days for the ball which was due to be held at the Mount Murray Hotel.
‘The hotel has always been extremely supportive of Manx Cancer Help and we’ll be working with them for future events. Given the interest the ball was generating, however, we had to look for a venue with a larger capacity. The Ballanette Estate, where we held our diamond anniversary ball two years ago, seemed the ideal solution so we were delighted when the estate’s owners, Stuart and Barbara Clague, kindly agreed to allow us to use their land again.
‘With the change of venue we now have more tables available for the ball that’s set to be a memorable event in the year the Island celebrates the 150th anniversary of the birth of Manx-born Archibald Knox, some of whose work has been generously lent by private collectors for display during the evening.
‘Once again we should like to extend our sincere thanks to James and Katie, Stuart and Barbara Clague, Celton Manx and everyone else who is helping us in our work to support all those affected in some way by cancer.’
Celton Manx executive director Bill Mummery said: ‘Clearly the work of Manx Cancer Help married to such a high-profile couple as Katie Melua and James Toseland as joint patrons and the legacy of Archibald Knox is proving an irresistible draw. As sponsors we are pleased to be associated with what will undoubtedly be a landmark occasion in the Island’s social calendar and we wish Ally and her team every success.’
To purchase a table or individual tickets, contact Ally Martin, 679544, ally@manxcancerhelp.org.
