A long-established Blackburn finance firm has announced a new partnership with a charity in the town for its upcoming ball.

Haydock Finance has partnered with the Wish Centre, based in Eanam Old Road, Blackburn, for its upcoming fundraising event, the Hollywood-themed Wish Upon A Star Ball in March.

The Challenge Way-based business finance specialists, which has been in operation for more than 40 years, is the headline sponsor for the event, which takes place at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel on Saturday, March 9.

The ball is a major event in the Wish Centre's calendar, raising vital funds to support its work helping and advising victims of domestic abuse.

The charity supports almost 4,000 people every year, many of whom are in crisis with nowhere else to go, and gives victims a safe haven in refuge homes until they are able to move into their own accommodation.

Debbie Hallam, Haydock’s head of HR and facilities, said: “We are delighted to be the headline sponsor for The Wish Centre’s 'Wish Upon A Star' Ball.

"This will be a fantastic event which we are proud to support. The charity provides advice, guidance and accommodation to a rapidly growing number of victims each year.

"The increase in refuge referrals is 50 per cent compared to 2021/2022, so the charity needs our help so that they can continue to deliver much needed critical support.”

Rebekah Wilson, from The Wish Centre, added: "Working at The Wish Centre, we see and hear first-hand the struggles and fear that people impacted by domestic abuse go through.

"This is often physically and mentally. When there are also children involved, this can add additional insecurities about what is the right thing to do for the safety of the family.

"We are extremely thankful to Haydock Finance who do so much for our charity and the people we are supporting. 

"We know that everyone will have a great time at the Ball but on a serious note, the funds raised will provide a lifeline to someone in need."

This is the latest partnership in the relationship between Haydock Finance and the Wish Centre which has lasted more than a decade.

Last summer, more than 20 staff volunteered their time to transform a garden at one of the refuges, for victims to enjoy, with materials donated by other local businesses for the project.

The Wish Upon A Star Ball is a black tie event and will see singing and dancing throughout the evening.

Tickets for the event are available from The Wish Centre's website.