A BROADWAY businessman has a very personal reason to put on his dancing shoes for charity.

Sam Turner, the director of Jutexpo, the Broadway based manufacturers of re-usable bags, has organised a charity ball in support of the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF).

The charity is a special one to Mr Turner because his daughter, Emily, was born with rare liver disease, biliary atresia and needed a life-saving liver transplant when she was just six months old.

He said: “Thankfully Emily is now doing well but CLDF were a great support to our family in those early, very tough days.

"We want to ensure that they continue to be there for other families when they receive that diagnosis and also for Emily and the many other young people who like her as they grow up and manage their liver condition for themselves."

The team at Jutexpo have been busy fundraising with dress down days, static bike rides and sponsored walks since March in a bid to reach their £20,000 target, but the Big Yellow Ball on July 11 promises to be the highlight of the year.

The black tie event takes place at Worcester’s Bank House Hotel and as well as a three course dinner, guests will enjoy entertainment from local singer, Beth Harris.

Mr Turner said: “It’s not often people get the chance to dress up for a ball and we thought this would be something different. The event is open not only to Jutexpo staff and associates but to anyone who would like a wonderful evening in support of a fantastic cause.”

Alison Taylor, Chief Executive of Children’s Liver Disease Foundation commented: “Each day in the UK two more children are diagnosed with a liver disease and there is still no cure. CLDF provides families with information and emotional support as well as funds for research and a voice for all those affected. In order to do this however, we rely on community fundraising for the majority of our income so we’re really grateful that Jutexpo have chosen us as their charity of the year.

"The Big Yellow Ball sounds a wonderful idea and funds they raise will make a real difference to children like Emily throughout the UK.”

Tickets for the ball are priced £30 per person.

Further details, on ruth.emblem@jutexpo.co.uk