A ST George's Day ball is set to boost funds for Southampton's new cancer information and support centre.

The huge fundraiser to celebrate England's national day will take place at the Botleigh Grange Hotel, near Hedge End, on Friday, April 22.

A joint venture between the Rotary Club and Inner Wheel Club of Chandler's Ford and Itchen Valley, the black tie event will include a grand auction, tombola, dancing, fine food and wine - as well as famous personalities.

All proceeds from the evening will go to the Daily Echo-backed Macmillan Cancer Relief South Hampshire Appeal to raise £1m for a cancer information and support centre soon to open at Southampton General Hospital, as well as helping two other local charities.

Margaret Scrivener, Inner Wheel president, said: "What better way to celebrate our patron saint and raise money for deserving local charities than to hold a grand ball?

"We have also been donated a beautiful St George's Day celebration cake, which is a work of art in itself."

Rotary Club president Godfrey Partridge said he had chosen Macmillan Cancer Relief as one of the club's main beneficiaries as so many members know people whose lives have been touched by cancer.

For more information or to purchase tickets, which cost £50 each, contact Rachel Hunt on 023 8048 5052 or e-mail b.hunt607@ntlworld.com