The evening began with an Irish coffee reception and was followed by a sumptuous five course Gala Banquet prepared by the staff of the Welcome Inn. MC for the evening was Sinead Graham, Chairperson Castlebar Chamber Social committee. Among the guests attending were Canon Paddy Curran who said Grace before Meals, Town Manager Mr Ray Norton and Mayor of Castlebar Mr Aidan Crowley. Guest of Honour was Mr Liam Scollan, CEO of Knock International Airport.

In his after dinner speech Mr Scollan paid tribute to all those involved in the cancer support services and especially those involved in fundraising for cancer research and equipment. He complimented the chamber of commerce for their initiative in organising the black and White ball in support of cancer action Mhaigh Eo Referring to the success of Knock International Airport Mr Scollan announced increased frequency of flights to certain European sun destinations for next season.

Mr Michael Browne, Chairperson of Cancer Action Mhaigh Eo thanked the patrons attending the Black and White Ball for their support in helping Cancer Action Mhaigh Eo move closer to its target of purchasing a Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping Device for use in Mayo General Hospital. Final speaker of the night was Mr. Oliver Kelleher, Chairman Castlebar Chamber of Commerce who called on the government to match euro for euro all money raised by fundraising groups for cancer research, equipment and support services.

In addition to a draw for spot prizes their was also a raffle for some very attractive prizes including a week in Gran Canaria (courtesy of Knock International airport), a weekend in Killashee House Hotel, six-month membership of Lough Lannagh Leisure Centre, Hampers from Mangans Cash and Carry, Staunton’s Pharmacy and Beauty By Joan as well as John Rocha Crystal. The evening then proceeded with guests dancing into the small hours to music from Ice on Fire and DJ’s Darren and Alan O’Malley

Castlebar Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all those who supported the Black and White Ball either by providing sponsorship, donating spot prizes and raffle prizes or attending on the night .In particular the chamber would like to thank The Connaught Telegraph, The Mayo News, The Western People, Castlebar.News and Crc fm and MWR for their help in publicising the Black and White Ball over the past few weeks