IT’S time to get your glad rags on and dress to impress as Ferne Animal Sanctuary prepares to celebrate the highlight of its year with a 75th anniversary ball.

The ball will take place on Saturday, September 19, at Woodlands Castle, Ruishton, in Taunton.

Nanette Wale, chairman of Trustees at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: “The Duchess of Hamilton, a great animal lover, started the sanctuary in the dark days at the beginning of World War II in 1939.

“We’ve chosen to commemorate the work that she began – and that is still carrying on 75 years later – with an anniversary ball.”

The event promises to be one to remember, with surprises throughout the evening.

In addition, a grand draw will be taking place with a £1,000 first prize.

Somerset Photographic will be in attendance with their portable photography studio taking professional portraits on the night as lasting memories of such a momentous occasion.

There will also be a table magician, a disco and dancing to AJ’s Caravan Band.

Tickets are £50 each, which includes a three-course meal with wine; tables of 10 are discounted to £450.

“This is going to be a very special evening,” added Mrs Wale.

“Ferne have an enormous amount of supporters and it will be fabulous to spend the evening celebrating with as many of them as possible.”

Tickets for the ball and grand draw are now on sale at the sanctuary or by calling Ferne on 01460-65214, ferneanimalsanctuary.org.