SOUTH Ribble's sportsmen will be talking balls next Thursday as part of the mayor's annual fund-raising drive.

But the Mayor, Councillor Margaret Smith, will be nowhere to be seen, because she's not allowed to come to a SPORTSMAN'S dinner!

Instead her consort Philip Smith is taking over the chains and joining forces with South Ribble Rotary Club to host the dinner.

The event will take place at the South Ribble Banqueting Suite on Thursday, March 2, and feature ex-Liverpool footballer Joey Jones and comedian Mike King.

The action-packed evening will include a three course dinner, charity auction, sports personalities and raffles.

Tickets cost £20 and can be obtained by calling (01772) 625542.

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