Organising this year's Valentine Ball has brought back some happy memories for Lord Mayor of York Councillor Irene Waudby and her Consort husband Derek.

And the couple have even managed to unearth a picture of themselves getting all romantic in the swinging '60s - right at the start of their life together.

Lord Mayor Councillor Waudby and the Consort met in 1962 at a church youth group and, after marrying in 1967, have been together for over 34 years.

They have settled in Rawcliffe and have two children - all a long time since the days in their picture when they had only just started 'walking out' together after actually meeting at a Valentine dance.

The picture was taken in 1964 at a youth club event at Monkgate Chapel (now Trinity). When the picture was taken Lord Mayor Councillor Waudby was working for Sorrell Builders in Heworth village and her future husband was studying for A levels at Nunthorpe Grammar School.

Lord Mayor Councillor Waudby will be hosting her own Valentine Ball on Saturday, February 16, to raise funds for St Leonard's Hospice and Age Concern York - the two charities she has adopted for her year of office.

The annual Valentine Ball has become a popular part of the Lord Mayor's calendar.

This year's black tie event is being staged at the Ebor Suite at York Racecourse where a four course dinner will be followed by dancing to a band and a disco.

Lord Mayor Councillor Waudby said, "The Valentine Ball is becoming a regular feature of the year since it not only offers a great night out but also raises much-needed funds for local charities.

"This year we will be holding a special prize draw at the ball with some really exciting prizes. A day at sea on HMS York and a day at York races are just two examples."

Hosting this year's Valentine Ball has special significance for the Lord Mayor and Consort Derek. She said "It was at a Valentine dance held in Trinity Methodist Chapel schoolroom back in 1964 that Derek and I first started going out together.

"I still have the admission ticket for that night - it's a treasured possession. I do hope that people of all ages will want to come and join us to celebrate Valentine's Day 2002 and create some of their own special memories."

The event is open to all and ticket information can be obtained by calling the civic office on 01904 551011.

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Further information: Nick Wharton, civic secretary Telephone: 01904 551011