AN EAST Huntspill wildlife centre is throwing a charity ball to celebrate its 25th anniversary.

Staff at Secret World Wildlife Rescue will be hosting an insect-themed bash called The Ugly Bug Ball at the Webbington Hotel, in Loxton, on October 7 to mark its silver jubilee.

The centre is asking anybody who goes to the ball to dress up as insects.

Mike Dilger, ecologist and patron of Secret World, will host for the event which will feature live music, a three course meal, a casino and a cabaret performance.

Samantha Hannay, head of external relations at Secret World, said: “With it being our 25th anniversary, it is an extra special year for us at Secret World Wildlife Rescue and Mike Dilger, one of our patrons, will be adding an extra sense of fun.

“Our annual ball has become a bit of a tradition and last year we welcomed more than 200 guests.

“We are all looking forward to celebrating Secret World’s achievements and raising vital funds so we can help even more sick and injured animals.”

The annual charity ball, which was originally started by Secret World’s founder, Pauline Kidner, aims to raise awareness and funds for the charity.

The rescue charity is funded by donations from the public and rescues and releases more than 5,000 animals each year.

Mrs Kidner said: “I can’t believe that Secret World has been going for 25 years – we have rescued so many animals and have such a fantastic team. It will be lovely to celebrate our landmark anniversary as well as raising some money to keep us going for another year.

I’m looking forward to a lovely evening.”

Tickets cost £40 each. Call 01278 783250.