THE organisers of a biennial ball commemorating the life of a well-known Weston hotelier aim to break the �750,000 barrier this year with their charity efforts.

The fifth Axentis Michael Memorial Ball will take place in the Great Hall of the Grand Pier on November 17, and more than 1,000 guests are expected to attend the Winter Wonderland-themed event.

The ball, featuring a four-course dinner, has raised �565,000 to date since the inaugural event in 2004 – 12 months after Axentis’ death.

Grand Pier owner Kerry Michael said the charitable occasion, started by his family in his father’s memory, has always proved popular.

He said: “Over the past eight years we have raised and distributed more than �500,000.

“In the past two years we have been able to support a wide variety of local good causes, including buying a minibus for Weston and District Community Transport and funding major surgery in Florida for a local teenager, Michael McKenzie.

“Tickets are always in great demand so this year we have extended the capacity to 1,000 seats. It’s always a very popular event with people travelling from all over the UK and abroad to attend

“Preparations are well under way for this year’s event and we have had some fantastic support. I cannot believe the generosity of all our friends and suppliers, particularly in the current economic climate.”

Tickets, priced �75, are available via email at memorialball@grandpier.co.uk or by calling 01934 646155.