A GLAMOROUS Christmas ball will hope to spread the festive joy to children in Sudan.

Dorchester couple Claire and Richard Budd are busy preparing for the fourth annual Christmas Ball at Kingston Maurward, near Dorchester, to raise funds for their Key to the Future Charity which supports education in Sudan.

This year’s event, on Sunday, December 11, will feature entertainment from five-piece swing band Just Friends, violinist and singer Nina Garcia and a chance to hit the dance floor with a disco from 10pm to midnight.

The main thrust of Claire and Richard’s work in Sudan has seen them set up the Grace Secondary School.

Claire said: “It’s been a difficult few months as the school has been affected by fighting and had to close temporarily.

“Our support means everything to the people, who are very used to living in a war zone and won’t let it get in the way of their education – which is their hope for a better future.”

The Budds’ efforts in Sudan have been well supported by the local community and that commitment was demonstrated at last year’s ball, when the crowds braved snowy conditions to turn out in force for the ball.

There will also be a host of top prizes up for grabs in a raffle on the night, including a three-course meal for two cooked by Dorchester’s Michelin-starred chef Russell Brown at his Sienna restaurant with accommodation for two at the nearby four-star B&B Westwood House.

Other local firms that have supported the event include Sgm Hair, Grassby and Sons, St James’s Palace Wealth Management, Cleaner and Greener Carpet Cleaning and Essential Home and Garden Services, magician Paul Hyland and Kingston Maurward College.

Tickets cost £45 and include a glass of bubbly on arrival, a three-course meal, coffee and mince pies.

For information go to www.GraceSecondarySchool.com or contact Claire on 07854 173244.