Charity's dismay as Blackpool Mayor's Ball gets axe

The event had been due to take place on Thursday May 10 at the Imperial Hotel.

It has been axed after Coun Ian Coleman stepped down from the role of Mayor last month following complaints about comments he is said to have made.

Coun Coleman pledged 90 per cent of the charity cash raised during his year in office to fund a new respite lodge at Blackpool Carers’ new centre on Newton Drive.

The centre, named Beaverbrook House, was given a multi-million pound makeover in 2016 by the team from BBC Show DIY SOS.

But there is still some work left to be done.

Michelle Smith, chief executive officer of Blackpool Carers, said: “We are very grateful for the fundraising Coun Coleman has brought in during his time as Mayor.

“He worked hard to support our new Lodge development that will provide overnight respite for young carers.

“Obviously the ball cancellation will be a huge loss but the appeal goes on and we’re looking for others to build on what has been achieved so far.

“The aim is to provide much needed facilities for young carers in the future.”

Coun Coleman had already raised £35,000 before he stepped down.

The other 10 per cent of his mayoral charity pot will go to the Blackpool branch of the Royal British Legion.

Conversion

The Mayoral fundraising will convert buildings used as production offices into accommodation for carers.