By David Gold in London

paralympic ballAugust 15 - Celebrities from sport and show business will gather at the inaugural Paralympic Ball next month to celebrate the contribution of Paralympians and promote increased participation worldwide.

The ball will raise crucial funds for the International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) Agitos Foundation and the British Paralympic Association (BPA), which are looking to develop a legacy for disability sport from London 2012.

There will be live music, a celebrity auction and a special after-party at the ball, which will be attended by IPC President Sir Philip Craven and his BPA counterpart Tim Reddish.

"The Paralympic Ball will be an inspirational celebration of the Paralympic Movement and our Paralympians with the ultimate aim of generating funds to get more people active in sport and potentially create future Paralympians," Sir Philip said.

"Together with the BPA we hope to take the energy of the London 2012 Paralympic Games and create a spectacular celebration evening that leaves a lasting legacy for the Paralympic Movement in Great Britain and around the world."

BPA chief executive Tim Hollingsworth added: "The Paralympic Ball will be a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the Paralympic Games and there can surely be no better time to hold it than during the London 2012 Paralympics, which looks set to be the biggest and best yet."

The event will take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on September 5 and will be sponsored by Proctor and Gamble (P&G) UK.

P&G is a worldwide partner of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and this deal strengthens its involvement in the Paralympic Movement, as well as being a huge boost for both the IPC and BPA.

"P&G is delighted to be an official partner of the Paralympic Ball to celebrate the power of the Paralympic Games," said P&G UK's Paralympics director, Nathan Homer.

"The ambition, talent and sheer determination of the ParalympicsGB athletes is truly inspirational.

"In addition to honouring these world-class athletes, we're also using our voice to recognise their nearest and dearest – like their mums – who have supported them in achieving their dreams."

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