YORK will be transported back to the delights of the 15th century, with a Venetian masquerade ball next month to raise money for two cancer charities.

Ball-goers will be donning flamboyant masks to raise money because of the tireless efforts of one eager fundraiser.

Emma Hartley, of New Earswick, has organised the ball single-handedly and has been busy making masks for the event.

She will be splitting all proceeds from the event between Candlelighters Children's Day Hospital at St James's University Hospital in Leeds and the Sick Children's Trust. Miss Hartley said: "My friend at work inspired me to do it after their little one was diagnosed with cancer. It has made me realise how important cancer charities like these are."

The Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation was founded in 1970 by concerned parents of children with cancer. It is committed to funding research into cancer treatments.

The Sick Children's Trust works to provide accommodation and transport for the families of children with cancer so they do not have to be separated from their parents when receiving treatment.

Miss Hartley said she hopes the ball - which has room for more than 100 masked guests - will prove popular.

She said: "People can by all means bring their own masks to the ball.

"I just started making them to raise some extra money for the charities."

The masquerade ball will be held at the Royal York Hotel in Station Road, York, on May 12.

There will be a jazz band, singers and pianist as well as a six foot tall inflatable champagne bottle, decorated with 600 balloons, at the ball. Miss Hartley hopes to hold more charity events in the future, and has roped in some friends to help her organise a family Fun Day on June 23 to raise money for Cancer Research.

Tickets and information about masks are available by phoning 07763234138 or emma.hartley@greencore.com Tickets are priced at £35 and include a three-course meal.