A charity ball organised by two Bradford businesses has raised a mammoth £26,000 for cancer research in the city.

And that figure for the Telegraph & Argus Bradford Can... Cancer Research Appeal is to be doubled thanks to the generosity of another local company.

The glittering ball at Valley Parade was organised and funded by Schofield Sweeney Solicitors and HSBC. The fun-filled night included a sit-down meal, massive auction, tombola, raffle, band, magician and disco, as well as roulette and card tables.

The bumper final total of £25,972 is set to be matched pound-for-pound by Sovereign Health Care, which has pledged to double anything raised by businesses up to £100,000.

That follows their successful drive to match community-raised funds up to £100,000.

Mike Willett, HSBC area manager, said he was thrilled: "HSBC in Bradford is delighted to play an active part in the community and this extends to assisting in fundraising projects.

"We are absolutely thrilled to bits - it's the largest fundraising effort we have ever participated in."

He thanked clients of both businesses and everyone who supported the event.

Chris Schofield, partner in Schofield Sweeney Solicitors, said: "We are very pleased that we were able to raise the money and particularly that it is being doubled by Sovereign Health Care, making the contribution about £52,000.

"It was a great evening; it just showed what can be done and was a typically good Bradford do."

He said they would attend the next big event in the Bradford Can... Appeal calendar - a glittering gala dinner and cabaret featuring the Grand Order of Water Rats.

"We would hope that other businesses and the community would help to support the event," Mr Schofield said.

It takes place at the Hilton Hotel, Bradford, on Saturday, September 7, and will feature a host of celebrities.

Water Rat members include Bruce Forsyth, Paul Daniels and Joe Pasquale. A cabaret will be staged by the big names present on the night, who have yet to be announced.

Tickets for the black tie event cost £45 each or whole tables can be purchased. To book, contact the Bradford Can... Appeal office on (01274) 235482.

Organisers are also looking for businesses to give sponsorship or prizes for the auction and anyone who can help should contact the appeal office.

The Bradford Can... Appeal is aiming to raise £1m for cancer research and drug trials at Bradford University and Bradford Royal Infirmary. Once the £1 million target is reached, Cancer Research UK will boost the fund by another £5 million.