THE MAYOR S charity ball has been postponed due to a dispute over catering rights at Exmouth Pavilion – a move which could have a negative effect on a vital lifeline service. The decision means the Exmouth and District Community Transport Group, the mayo

THE MAYOR'S charity ball has been postponed due to a dispute over catering rights at Exmouth Pavilion - a move which could have a negative effect on a vital lifeline service.

The decision means the Exmouth and District Community Transport Group, the mayor's chosen charity of the year, may have to wait months to secure funding which help it provide services to the elderly and disabled.

Scheduled to take place on April 17 at the Pavilion, the event has been put off because of a legal dispute over which catering firm is to trade inside the building - a service currently offered by Aby's Catering.

The cash-strapped transport group, which provides a ring and ride service to people with mobility problems, has experienced a difficult financial year and is currently using money from its reserves.

Mayor Darryl Nicholas, East Devon District Council's Exmouth champion, said: "It is with great regret that we are going to have to postpone the Mayor's Charity Fundraising Ball.

"There are circumstances beyond our control which mean we simply will not be able to market the event suitably in time for this date."

The aim of the ball is to raise as much money for the chosen charity.

Cllr Nicholas added: "The Pavilion has always been great supporters of the ball and to this end we will be seeking a date in early July to hold the postponed event.

"It is hoped that the rescheduled date will still enable us to raise a substantial amount for this incredibly worthy local cause."

David Pagett, chief executive of Leisure East Devon, said the delay would allow the Exmouth Town Council to plan the ball with the company that would be providing the catering services an ongoing basis.

LED manage the Pavilion on behalf of East Devon District Council.

Mr Pagett said: "This is an arrangement that both LED and the Town Council have agreed to and are happy with.

"Other activities at the Pavilion remain unaffected and we would like to reassure all customers that they are able to continue enjoying quality catering facilities at the Pavilion.