Oxford in May for many people across the world means only one thing - balls.

But traditionally, Oxford University students have been the ones having all the fun, stumbling out of college gardens clutching bottles of champagne.

Now education consultant Stanley Goodchild reckons it's high time we all learnt something from Oxford's young May revellers.

For he and his fellow Rotarians are organising Oxford's first official charity ball, to raise £10,000 for the Helen House Hospice. The ball is being held at the Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel, Sandford-on-Thames, on May 21, with the black tie event expected to attract 210 guests.

Mr Goodchild, a former chief executive of Berkshire County Council, said he decided to organise the ball while at home recovering from a brain tumour operation.

Mr Goodchild, 55, of Cumnor Rise Road, Cumnor Hill, said: "I was surprised to learn that Oxford, in fact, is one of the few cities that does not have an official charity ball. It seemed a sad omission from the Oxford social calendar." He said local businesses, Oxford City Council and the Chamber of Commerce, were helping put on the ball, which is expected to become an annual event.

Mr Goodchild said: "Our aim is to raise money for a log cabin activities centre in the grounds of the hospice, where children will be able to relax and read."

The Rotarians are appealing for raffle prizes and donations from companies. Tickets for the ball, which include a five-course meal and disco, are priced at £45 each. For further information about the ball, call Mr Goodchild on 01865 862682 or Ann Brett on 01865 792020.

Story date: Thursday 15 April

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