The sweet smell of success greeted the launch of The Chocolate Ball last year to raise funds for two local hospices.

Herts Advertiser: Chocolate Ball pixChocolate Ball pix (Image: Archant)

And so popular was the indulgent evening of dinner, dancing to a live band and - of course - chocolate that it is being repeated at the Noke Hotel in St Albans in November.

The chocolate-themed event is the brainchild of local businessman Peter Barker and his wife Kath who set up The Chocolate Wrapper, a family-run business that provides personalised chocolate bars.

It was launched in memory of his family’s great friend Paul Atkins who passed away last year in the Hospice of St Francis after losing his battle with cancer.

They felt that as Paul and his family had always supported their chocolate business, coming up with a chocolate-themed fundraiser in his memory seemed to be a fitting tribute.

Paul’s widow Caroline Atkins is also actively involved in the event. She is an active supporter of both the Hospice of St Francis and Grove House in St Albans after being diagnosed with breast cancer herself. Both charities will benefit from the ball.

She said: “Last year’s Chocolate Ball in Paul’s memory was such a huge success so we are hoping that this year will be bigger and better. The work of our local hospices is vital and every penny raised will go towards their amazing work.”

Over 120 tickets to the ball have already been sold and Peter is hoping it will sell out. To that end, he is urging local businesses to get behind it and take up sponsorship opportunities or purchase a table.

The chocolate-themed black tie event will feature a Bucks Fizz reception, three-course meal, live dance band, chocolate fountain, a chocolate raffle, auction and a number of chocolate surprises.

Tickets are £60 with a table for 10 at the discounted rate of £550, available online at www.thechocolateball.org .