STARS of stage and screen could descend on the Ribble Valley for a charity night hosted by TV's Dot Cotton.

Eastenders star June Brown will host a Mad Hatter's Ball in aid of the Michael Elliott Trust at the Stirk House Hotel, Gisburn, on April 3.

June Brown is patron of the trust which partners children with special needs with donkeys rescued from neglect and cruelty.

Trust organisers say the partnerships build confidence and self-esteem in both the children and the animals.

The event will also herald the opening of the hotel's new County Ballroom and the dance floor will be "inaugurated" during the evening by a champion dancers.

The ball includes a three-course meal, cabaret and dancing, and tickets, priced £30, are available from the hotel on 01200 445581.

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