A MAJOR fund-raising event with a difference is being organised to hopefully secure thousands for pounds for Rossendale Hospice.

But instead of appealing for people to turn up at a venue next Friday -- hospice chairman Dorothy Mitchell is advising people to stay at home!

Dorothy believes in leading by example, and readily accepts the challenge each year to raise funds.

Fund-raising manager Liz Nelson said: "Her event is one with a difference -- the difference being there isn't one.

"Her novel Quiet Night In is just that. Instead of spending lots of money hiring baby sitters, buying a new dress and ordering taxis to go to a 'do', all she is asking people to do is send her a fraction of what all that would have cost.

"In return, you will receive a little something to help you will receive a little something to help you enjoy a quiet night in."

Dorothy said: "This year we celebrate the 15th anniversary of Rossendale Hospice. 2002 is also an exceptionally expensive year as we take our final steps to become full partners in the East Lancashire Specialist Palliative Care Partnership.

"My last personal effort raised £3,900. Excellent, yes, kept the hospice going for four days, but the event itself only made a profit of £900 -- the £3,000 came from those of my friends and contacts who said, 'I'll buy a ticket, but I'm not coming.'

"I am doing it again but this time I am asking you to support my event but don't come.

"Stay at home on February 22 on what will likely be a dark, foggy, freezing night when only the gritters are happy to be out there on overtime.

"Send me a fraction of what you would have spent by sending me a cheque and don't come.

"You can enjoy your quiet night in with a clear conscience. You will have contributed to the care of local people with life-threatening illnesses and in return I will send you something in recognition of your generosity and make your Quiet Night In special."

In the past Dorothy gave more than 100 volunteers £10 with the challenge of seeing how much it could generate.