A CONCERT, spring fair and a beginner's guide to croquet are among the latest fundraising events to be staged during Bury Hospice's popular Red Rose Month.

As well as these activities, the charity's trademark red roses are currently on sale to members of the public. They are available at supermarkets and stores borough-wide.

Shoppers will get the opportunity to boost the Hospice's coffers during a mayor's collection to be held at the Mill Gate shopping centre in Bury this Saturday (April 12).

Also on Saturday, beginning at 1pm at Coronation Park, Radcliffe, Bury Croquet Club is holding an open day. The public is asked to try their hand at the game and expert coaching will be available. Cost is 50p, including refreshments. Just turn up on the day.

In the evening, the Longfield Suite in Prestwich will host a glittering Red Rose ball. The annual party night will feature show band Snapshot. Guests buying the £25 tickets will enjoy a delicious four-course meal and can dance the night away until 1am.

Next Wednesday, April 16, a spring and coffee morning sponsored by Bury mayoress Councillor Mrs Stella Smith will take place at the town's Elizabethan Suite between 10am and 1pm. There will be a wide selection of stalls and refreshments and visitors can also enjoy a relaxing massage. Admission, costing £1, includes a coffee or tea.

On Wednesday, April 23, Radcliffe Civic Suite will be the setting for a St George's Day Concert, featuring the Band and Corps of the Lancashire Fusiliers Association. The programme will include string music with a Last Night of the Proms feature. Tickets priced £5 are available from the Bury Hospice fund raising centre on The Rock (797 1748).