TV STARS and sporting celebrities attended the first annual dinner for Rossendale Hospice and helped to raise £13,500.

The VIP list included Lisa Riley, of You've Been Framed, James Carlton, who plays Jason Kirk in Emmerdale, Steve Bruce, ex-Manchester United captain, Sam Allardyce, manager of Bolton Wanderers and Phil Neville, Manchester United and England player.

They enjoyed a meal at Horncliffe Mansions, Rawtenstall, and Foofoo Lamarr made a special appearance to auction items which had been donated to the hospice including a signed David Beckham shirt and book, a helicopter ride, a signed England football and an individually designed piece of jewellery.

Harry Robson Entertainment of Stacksteads provided a fun casino night free of charge to the hospice.

Appeals director Liz Nelson said: "The special events committee which organised the event did a wonderful job,

"The evening not only raised a lot of money but everyone who attended had a great time.

"We are very grateful to everyone who donated raffle prizes, items for the auction, table gifts and prizes for the fun casino.

"These included Helen Coates, Winfields, Killeleas, Sunday Best, Freddies, Musbury Fabrics and Sutcliffe Shoes.

"The support of local companies and individuals has been tremendous and was reflected in the amount raised for the hospice."

There are plans to hold a similar event next year and also a second Rossendale Woman of the Year which will take place in June 2001.