A celebration ball to thank the people of Bradford will be the final major Telegraph & Argus Bradford Can... Cancer Research Appeal event.

The black-tie evening is set to take place at the Hilton Hotel, Bradford, on Saturday, February 15.

It is hoped the appeal's £1 million target will be reached by the night of the ball.

The money has been raised by individuals, organisations, companies and schools throughout the Bradford district.

Cash has been collected in a variety of ways, from simple donations and raffles to bike rides, balloon races and head shaves.

The £1 million will go towards research work into new anti-cancer drugs which is being done at Bradford University's Cancer Research Unit.

Once new drugs are developed, they will be tested on patients in clinical trials at Bradford Royal Infirmary.

The Bradford Can... Appeal was launched in September last year with a gala dinner at the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television.

Oscar-winning film producer Lord Puttnam attended to give the appeal his backing and appeal president Baroness Lockwood spoke about the value of communities working together.

Now, 17 months on, it is hoped the people of Bradford can come together to commemorate the fantastic achievement of raising £1million.

Tish Burton, Bradford Can... Appeal manager, said the target was within reach.

"By mid-February, if support continues, we will have £1million for cancer research here in our city - an achievement to celebrate and so many people to thank," she said. "The Bradford Can... Appeal intends to do both in style.

"Our grand Celebration Ball will be a glittering and joyful occasion, an acknowledgement of the effort and commitment given by so many Bradford people.

"We do hope that as many of our supporters as possible will be able to buy a ticket and join us on the night, to personally accept our thanks and help us celebrate Bradford's magnificent achievement."

The Celebration Ball, sponsored by HSBC and Schofield Sweeney Solicitors, will begin at 7pm with a Bucks Fizz reception.

That will be followed by a gourmet meal, then a disco and live entertainment.

Tickets for this fabulous event cost £400 for a table of ten or £40 each. To book, give a prize or a donation, contact Mick Russell at HSBC on Bradford (01274) 332332.