IMPRESSIONIST Rory Bremner will boost the coffers of Blackburn Cathedral's Lantern Tower Appeal by entertaining at a £100-a-head ball tonight for next to nothing.

The star has agreed to perform for 'a nominal fee' in order to pay for one of the tower's new stained-glass panels - which cost £5,000 each.

The Lantern Ball will be held in a marquee at Hoghton Tower and is expected to raise more than £10,000 towards the restoration of the Cathedral's centrepiece.

About 170 tickets out of a maximum of 200 have so far been sold for the black tie and ballgown event, which will also feature a seven-piece band, a champagne reception and a sumptuous meal. The appeal will be boosted further by a 'silent auction' in which diners will place bids for prizes in sealed envelopes. The prizes range from holidays in Ireland and golf breaks to a sewing machine and television.

Lantern Tower Appeal director Penelope Worsley said: "When we contacted Rory Bremner he said he was delighted to support the rebuilding of the tower.

"He is performing for a nominal amount and the difference will pay for a new panel."

Rory's name will now be added to the list of people who have donated to the appeal, which will be enshrined on a panel in the Cathedral.

Penelope said she was delighted with the response to the ball and the appeal in general.

The overall target is at least £750,000, of which about £600,000 has been raised.

So far, 27 of the 56 stained glass panels have been reserved and work is due to start on the renovation in October.

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