THE compere of the Citizen-sponsored Charity Variety Performance has tapped up old contacts to help make the show a success -- including Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson!

Local entertainer Tony Slater (pictured) has written to the entrepreneur in the hope of receiving a cash donation or gift to raffle.

Business leaders and people from across Preston and South Ribble have pledged to donate cash and raffle prizes to the event, which aims to raise as much money as possible for three needy causes, on April 17 at Preston's Charter Theatre.

Supermarket chain Booths intend to donate money to the show, organised by Preston dance teacher Melanie Bodman, while bosses at Asda, in Fulwood, have promised to hand over a £20 hamper as a raffle prize. Meanwhile, Guild Community Trust residential support worker Odette Oliver, 29, from Walton-le-Dale, and Maxine Hull, 32, from Ashton, plan to hold a Stars in Your Eyes charity night with all money going to the good cause. Money raised will go to the Medicine and Chernobyl charity, which needs cash to help children in Belarus affected by nuclear disaster.

Some money will also help disabled schoolboy Sam Dowd get to Florida for water therapy with dolphins and enable staff at St Joseph's playgroup, Preston, to renovate their building.

Compere Tony said: "I'm asking Preston people to get behind Melanie and help support this event. I guarantee that people who attend will not be disappointed."

As well as a variety of acts the event will include performances from talented youngsters at Reeders Dance Studio, Preston, and sales of the Official PNE CD and tape which includes tracks with the Deepdale footballers.

Tickets £7 (adults) and £5 (children and OAPs) are available on 01772 258858 or from Melanie on 01772 768616.