A SWANKY midsummer ball is taking place next month to raise vital funds for a women’s refuge.

The event is in aid of Fortalice, a Bolton-based charity which provides emergency accommodation and support for victims of domestic abuse, will be held at Festival Hall, Bolton Town Hall on Friday, June 9.

Partygoers, who will be treated to a three-course meal, entertainment and a disco should arrive at 7.30pm for pre-drinks with the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Roger Hayes.

Tables have already been booked by Bolton business and organisations including Joe Egan Solicitors, The University of Bolton and Scissor Sisters Hairdressers.

Councillor Jean Gillies, Bolton Council’s domestic violence champion, said it essential Fortalice continued to receive the funding it needs.

She said: “Fortalice is a massively important part of our domestic violence team. They don’t just look after women, but children, they do lots of nurturing and have lots of input.

“That input costs money and ever since the budget cuts things have been very difficult.

“Some of the children are very withdrawn because they have seen quite a lot and that takes specialist training, specialist who can deal with it.”

Last year’s inaugural midsummer ball was held at the Macron Stadium and Cllr Gillies is hoping to emulate its success this year.

She said: “It was a massive success last year, a great, great atmosphere. It’s not about negativity it’s about making a change ,we don’t’ dwell on the negative side of things.

“The important thing is the outcome for the cause we are raising money for.

“It’s about keeping the awareness as a high profile that people have got somewhere to go , somewhere to turn and there is a light at the end of the tunnel .

“It’s important we keep promoting it as much as possible - there’s a need for a place like this.”

And she added the work done by specialists at Fortalice was invaluable.

She said: “It’s a safe haven, they work with children as well as doing one-to-one work with women. And when they get back into the community they don’t just dump them , but go out helping them reintegrate and getting the kids into schools.”

Tickets for the ball are £35 per head and tables for eight are available. There will also be raffle prizes and an auction.

To book contact Cllr Gillies on 07905210464 or email jeangillies1961@gmail.com