Leading Car & Van Leasing company XLCR Vehicle Management of Colne has agreed to become the headline sponsor for the Pendle Mayor’s Ball this year. Lee Duerden said: “I am delighted to be able to support the event. The sponsorship will go towards extra glitz and an enhanced food offer.”
As well providing funding, Lee will be attending and hosting his own table and hopes to provide some top-notch auction prizes as well. The Mayor’s annual Charity Ball has a soul and Marvin Gaye theme as Pendle’s Mayor and Mayoress host a glitzy event which will also raise funds for children and young people.

“Californian singer Robin Lee from Sacramento is the lead artist and is the only Marvin Gaye tribute act in the UK,” said His Worship The Mayor of Pendle, Councillor James Keith Starkie. We intend to give him a great welcome to Pendle!” “’What’s Going On’ is the title of one of Marvin’s greatest songs. It’s one of a brilliant set of songs that are perfect for getting people up and dancing,” explained Councillor Starkie. He added: “Other soul and popular music from the 70s, 80s and 90s will form part of the DJ sets.” The black tie event takes place on Friday 1st March at The Fence Gate Inn from 6.30pm. It starts with a complimentary reception drink and will be followed by a luxury four course dinner with a Lancashire theme.
The Mayor’s annual ball is an important fundraising event and all profits will go into the Mayoress of Pendle’s charity pot. “However,” the Mayor said, “as this is a celebration of music these funds will go specifically towards children & young people to further their musical abilities.” “We’ve been to several events where young people have played instruments and sung and there are many youngsters that we will help with this.”

Mayoress Janet Starkie’s working life has been in education and she knows that music helps with children’s and young people’s resilience, supporting mental and physical health and well-being. “We have helped, or are about to help, several local organisations which offer support for disadvantaged youngsters. This charity fundraiser is slightly different,” he said. Tickets for the event are £45 or £425 for a table of ten and can be booked by contacting Pendle Council on 01282 661661 during office hours. The event includes a charity auction and raffle.

For more information and to donate prizes and experiences for the Ball to help in the fundraising efforts please contact Fiona Standring, The Mayor’s Secretary, on 01282 661636 or email fiona.standring@pendle.gov.uk