TV STARS and sporting celebrities are set to attend a major fund-raising event to help secure thousands for pounds for Rossendale Hospice.

The VIP list is to include former Emmerdale star and You've Been Framed presenter Lisa Riley, alongside several football stars.

The annual fund-raising ball has raised more than £60,000 for Rossendale Hospice since it started three years ago and is expected to be bigger and better than ever this year.

And to raise the profile of the glittering event, top football players and celebrities have donated goodies to be auctioned at the masked ball.

Some of the auction prizes on offer include the first Manchester United shirt to be signed by their new Portuguese starlet Christiano Ronaldo, football tickets for the European Cup Match and signed celebrity goodies.

There will be a DJ and band including former members of Sold As Seen, one of the North West's top soul bands. Sharon Walsh, fund-raising manager for Rossendale Hospice, said: "The ball raises more than £20,000 each year. Last year it was nearly £30,000 which was just fantastic.

"Lisa Riley has supported the event every year, along with the valley's top businessmen and women, which we always appreciate. Manchester United players have given prizes and signed lots of goodies.

"Joan Winfield, of Winfields, has donated all the masks and the table arrangements. People will have to wear the masks at the ball, which are all unique and of a spectacular design."

The ball is being held at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel, Clayton-Le-Moors, on Saturday, November 7. Tickets are £50 each, including a meal and entertainment until late.

For tickets, contact Sharon Walsh on 01706 240081.