THE Ryde Charity Ball will be held at the Lakeside Hotel, Wootton, in aid of the Wight Brainy Bunch.

Sponsored by the Southern Co-operative, as part of its Love Your Neighbourhood scheme, the black tie event will take place on September 7.

Kathryn Grimes, who founded the charity with her husband, Mark, after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, said: "Following his surgery, we found the whole experience very lonely and difficult, and wanted to do something to change this for other Island families.

"We now support dozens of families providing emotional and financial assistance as they face this awful diagnosis, in the hope that their journey is easier."

The first charity ball was held last year, raising more than £1,200.

There are more than 102,000 people in the UK with a brain tumour. It claims more lives of children and adults under 40, than any other form of cancer.

Sam Walker, funeral coordinator, said: "We had amazing feedback from last year, so this year there are more tickets, but they are still limited to give the event an exclusive feel."

The evening includes a three-course meal featuring Island produce, an auction and raffle.

Kathryn said: "We are still a relatively new charity and rely on arranging our own events to raise funds — to have such wonderful support from Ryde Co-op Funeralcare this year is incredible."

Tickets are available at the St John's Road funeral home, by emailing rydefuneral@southerncoops.co.uk or calling 615746.