The event was originally known as The Rock & Roll Ball.  It was started in 1992 after local radio presenter Martyn Blunt's Father, Peter Blunt, had died of the disease. Martyn was already aware of the work of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund, having met Sandra Hinds a sufferer of breast cancer who had done much in the last months before her death to raise funds and awareness for the fund.

A number of volunteers were found by the fund and a meeting was held at Mercury FM's headquarters in Crawley . Marion Baker and Andrea Little were two of the people who were asked to assist. Marion was to take over as chairman for several years before handing over to Andrea who today, 13 years later, is still the driving force behind the ball.

Friends and colleagues were all approached. Chris Stephens introduced electronics giant Panasonic who went on to become the major sponsor for seven years, using the ball as the perfect way to entertain their clients. Chris also introduced the Nationwide Building Society who again attended and sponsored for many years.

Peter Perry was Managing Director of Mercury FM back in 1992 and threw the weight of the station behind the event.

The event has had tremendous help from another local business man. Colin Paddon of Nexus Advertising Marketing in Tunbridge Wells revamped all our design work and logo. They also took over printing of the programme and leaflets from John Atkinson of Kall Kwick in Crawley who provided the 1994 & 1995 print work.

Mushroom Lighting in Northampton has provided the lighting and trussing every year since the 1st ball on the 19th September 1992. The cost was at a bargain price for the charity in 1992 and they did not increase their cost to us for many years.

Two Lighting Directors Ben Fox and Mark Strange have supported us over the past few years and designed fantastic lighting all supplied for free by Essential Lighting.

We must thank our new most recent principle sponsor Chubb and recognise past sponsors Panasonic, Group4Securicor, Seeboard, Barclays, Nationwide and others.

Project Worldwide, an international events company based in Hampton Court , gave a new look to the programme of the 2000 ball. More recently Vince Hogg of En Route has printed the programme at no charge. Graphic Designer Mark Wilding gives up much spare time and sleep to complete it on time.

Entertainers have included most of Martyn Blunt's broadcasting friends and colleagues. Danny Pike has been at the Disco every year and Steve Hyland has made thousands as our auctioneer. The Guildford School of Acting support us year after year to open the cabaret. Not one of these people has ever accepted a penny in payment.

Marty Wilde, Showaddywaddy and Billy Geraghty (from the cast of Buddy) all recreated the Rock and Roll of the 50s. In the past few years we have begun to feature other themes and eras; this started when Edwin Starr was our guest star along with our own stars The Overtures

The Overtures have been with us since 1996. On that first occasion the dance floor was packed and today they remain our favourite band. How many charity balls can boast having Elton John's favourite band, the one he chose to play at his own wedding.

There are many more that, without their kindness,- The Ball - and moreover the cash, would not have been possible.  Martyn Blunt and Andrea Little would like to thank every committee member past and present, every helper, sponsor and paying guest for helping us raise over £380,000 .

In 2007 we have changed the name to 'Talk of The Town' and refreshed the event with some new exciting features. We hope you can come along and enjoy the changes.

Thank you. Everyone who supports Cancer Research UK has a very personal reason for helping. Martyn Blunt is amazed how an idea over 15 years ago has grown. He has only one regret, his dad was not there to see it.


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