AN entertainment venue in Taunton has been inspired to host a charity ball for adults with learning disabilities.

Oake Manor will be hosting the event for 300 adults with disabilities at its premises on June 20.

The golf club was first approached by Green Days Day Care, an organisation that works with adults with learning disabilities, a few months ago. One of the staff members had been to a club night in London that was specifically for adults with learning disabilities, and she thought something similar could be held in Taunton.

Steve Purchase, catering manager, and the rest of the team, were inspired by the idea, and the Disability Ball was born.

Mr Purchase has been working with Green Days Day Care and the Rotary Club of Taunton to bring the idea to fruition.

He said: “After many planning meeting the Disability Ball was born, however when we totalled everything we wanted to do it became apparent that to cover costs the ticket price would be in the region of £50 per person, and this was decided this was way too much.

“I then approached various organisations that I have worked with and was amazed at their response.

“Ian Ramus of the Rotary Club of Taunton contacted me and said that their club would pay for all the various entertainments, from the live band, fireworks, disco and chocolate fountain, an amount that totalled more than £3,000.

“We also received smaller amounts from various other groups.

“Without this massive sponsorship this event would never have taken place.”

Tickets are now priced at just £20 per person for the event that starts at 6pm. The club says the event is strictly not for profit and the ticket price just covers basic costs of the staff, food and VAT.

Guests will have a two-course dinner and will be entertained throughout the evening.

Mr Purchase added: “What an amazing night we have got planned. All adults are welcome - whatever disabilities they might have.

“Thanks to our fantastic supporters we are able to charge just £20 a ticket.

“Our special thanks also go to The Inner Wheel Club of Taunton Vale, The Inner Wheel Club of Wellington and Yvonne and Richard Coupe of the Wellington Edge for their kind support.

“We also have to mention our fantastic suppliers who have also helped, Carly Press, Party On, Firestorm Pyrotechnics and Cover with Love.”

More than 200 tickets have been sold so far. Visit the website for more information.