FRIENDS in Rossendale are arranging a spectacular ball to raise thousands for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Organisers of the annual charity event are hoping for their most successful year to date in a bid to boost their £127,000 total.

The group first got together to raise money after Maria Stansfield's sister, Carmelina Robertson, died aged 38 from breast cancer six years ago.

The first year saw a male stripper evening at Marl Pits, in Rawtenstall, and since then several Valentine's events have been hosted at the Dunkenhalgh, in Clayton-le-Moors, which is where this year's ball will be held.

Carmelina - Carm to her friends - was originally from Burnley and was a pupil at St Hilda's RC High School. She moved to Scotland after marrying former Burnley footballer Stuart Robertson.

Her sister Maria, from Waingate Road, Rawtenstall, enlisted the help of friends to help organise the fundraisers. And due to the large amount of money raised, she has twice met Prince Charles in his role as the patron of Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

And in six years the committee has raised more money than any other voluntary group for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Friend and fellow organiser, Gwenn Kennedy, said: "So far we have raised nearly £130,000, which we are really proud of. It's hard work organising the event but everybody always has so much fun and we always raise a lot of money for such a worthwhile cause."

This year's event on February 7 at 7.30pm is already sold out.

Organisers have invited Manchester United and England star, Phil Neville, who will be relying on the talents of his father, Neville, as the evening's auctioneer to help boost funds. The night will also include a gourmet meal and live music.