A HEREFORD college is set to host a Phantom Ball to celebrate its 140th birthday next month.

The Royal National College for the Blind is set to host a Phantom Ball to celebrate the charity’s 140th birthday next month.

The event on Friday, March 1, will see a twist on the traditional charity ball – by inviting people not to attend it.

Instead guests are asked to make a donation while being “spared a mass catered meal punctuated by long speeches” and the inconvenience of attending a formal event.

The charity is keen to focus resources and fund-raising income where it is needed, rather than on high profile but costly events.

Tickets not to attend the Phantom Ball cost £45 or £450 for a table of 10.

Money raised will go towards new equipment, transport fares and Braille tuition for students at the college to increase their independence and confidence.

For more information visit rncb.ac.uk/phantomball or for additional non -invitations call 01432 376371.