Charity event founded in 1947 to 'make a difference on a child's Christmas morning' is still going strong in Harrogate today
One of Yorkshire's longest-running charity events is returning to Harrogate for its 75th anniversary of gifting toys to children.
First held in 1947, Harrogate's Snowball event began with a simple idea – every guest brings a new, unwrapped toy for children who would otherwise go without at Christmas.
Taking place at Harrogate's DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel & Spa, the fun night with a serious mission moved from Leeds in the 1990s after being founded by Edward Swales at the Astoria Ballroom in Leeds after the Second World War.
Tables are booking now for the much-loved Christmas ball where every guest brings a toy for a child in need and leaves it on the sleigh.
Snowball Committee Chair Sally Bickerton said: "Watching the sleigh fill up is sobering and emotional.
"It's a reminder of the difference one present can make to a child's Christmas morning.
"That's why we do it every year.
“It is a fun event and lovely for people to let their hair down as the Christmas season starts.
"Long-standing guests might remember the Astoria days, when the evening's namesake snowballs, huge balls of cotton wool, were hurled around the room for most of the night.
"The tradition came to an abrupt end after a few years, when a snowball dunked in beer was thrown at the band and landed inside an electric guitar!
"A health and safety nightmare.
"These days, the only things thrown around are shapes on the dance floor.
"Tables are selling fast, so please join us.”
Organisers are inviting groups of friends and colleagues to book a table.
Guests will enjoy a three-course dinner, dancing to live music from Func on the Rocks, and magician Simon Hughes.
The toys will go to Leeds Children's Charity, which supports Lineham Farm, a sanctuary for disadvantaged local children, while others go to the Salvation Army to reach families in deprived areas of North Yorkshire.
Tables are round and seat a minimum of six and a maximum of 12 guests.
Table applications must be received by October 30.