The Alice in Wonderland themed Charity Ball was organised by the Yorkshire Publicity Association and held at Rudding Park. The magical themed event was attended by over 200 advertising and media industry professionals from throughout the region, many who had dressed up as characters from the fantasy adventure from Mad Hatters and Cheshire Cats to White Rabbits and Alice herself!

Diane Dobson, of the Leeds-based marketing agency, The Whole Caboodle arranged the event.  She said: “I am delighted to have generated so much interest in this fundraising event, especially when money is tight for many businesses and it is testament to their ongoing support and generosity that the Ball has proved such a success.

Tables are already being booked for the YPA charity Christmas Ball on Thursday 2nd December at Rudding House. For further information or to book a table contact Diane Dobson. Email diane@thewholecaboodle.com Tel 01423 523000

The Yorkshire Publicity Association (YPA), the region’s biggest media networking forum, has today announced the appointment of John Ainley to chairman as the association looks to significantly expand its membership and activities during 2010.

Founded in 1923, the YPA is the oldest publicity association in the UK and aims to improve the presence of Yorkshire’s media companies and professionals across the region, nationally and internationally.

 
Ainley’s appointment comes at a time of significant development for the association, as it looks to double its membership, expand the YPA committee and redevelop its website and online presence in line with current media trends.

 
John Ainley, Business Director for CBS Outdoor Ltd in Leeds, assumes the role from incumbent chairwoman, Leigh Bulmer, who has guided the organisation through the first phase of its expansion. The association also boasts Nick Lane-Fox, owner of Bramham Park, as its Honorary President.

 
John Ainley, YPA Chairman, said: “I am thrilled to be taking on the chairmanship of the YPA at such a pivotal time in its history. As the oldest publicity association in the UK we have a unique and unparalleled history and I look forward to building on the fantastic work undertaken by my predecessor, Leigh Bulmer.

 
“As part of our strategic drive to expand and develop the association, we are enhancing the YPA committee, aiming to double our membership and undertaking a complete overhaul of our website and e-communications to significantly increase our web traffic over the coming year.

 
“I look forward to overseeing the growth and development of the association and whilst we’ve never been in a stronger position, there are plenty more opportunities for us to extend our influence and benefit the region as a whole.

 
“People are working incredibly hard in the media sector as a whole as we move forward in challenging times.  At the YPA we also look forward to putting together events throughout 2010 that will not only be fantastic networking opportunities but also times to relax with industry colleagues in spite of the tough economic climate.”

 
Adrian Johnson, Director of PR agency Umpf was elected as Vice Chairman.