A CHARITY that helps young families is putting the final plans in place for a major fundraising event.

Dorchester mayor Andy Canning paid a visit to Athelhampton House, where the Harvest Ball in aid of Home-Start West Dorset will take place.

Home-Start is Coun Canning’s charity of the year for 2012.

He said: “I am backing this as my Mayoral Charity this year as I want to help local young families get through these difficult economic times.

“Home-Start West Dorset helps by training volunteers to provide advice and support to help young families re-discover the joys of family life.”

He added: “I am aiming to help them raise extra funds so that they can provide the necessary training so that more families can get help they need.”

Chair of the trustees of the charity, Janet Kennewell, said: “We’re over the moon to be chosen as the mayor’s charity of the year.”

The Harvest Ball takes place on October 12. To book, call Helen or Gemma on 01305 755608 or visit the office at Prospect House, Peverell Avenue East, Poundbury .