PARTY-GOERS danced into the small hours at what was described as the "best ever" Red Rose ball on behalf of Bury Hospice.

More than 200 people donned their finest evening wear at Prestwich's Longfield Suite, and at least £3,000 was raised on the night.

The ball is the highlight of Red Rose Week, the most important week in the hospice's fund-raising calendar.

It was attended by Bury's mayor and mayoress, Councillor Bill Johnson and his wife, Joyce, along with MPs Ivan Lewis and David Chaytor.

Dance band Celebration provided music ranging from rock favourites to gentle waltzes.

Bury Hospice fund-raising manager Mervyn Reeves said: "People stayed quite late. They really enjoyed the evening. A lot of people said that the dinner was the best ever." A raffle and the auction of a cricket bat signed by members of the Lancashire cricket team raised extra cash.

The charity hopes its Red Rose Week activities will generate at least £30,000 across the borough.

A St George's Day concert at Radcliffe Civic Hall on Monday (April 23) attracted more than 300 people, raising at least £1,000.

Mr Reeves said: "They did the Last Night of the Proms and people were there with their flags and bowler hats. It was a smashing atmosphere."

A bowling competition for local firms at Bury Megabowl, Pilsworth, also raised £1,000 and events to follow on from the week have been organised, including a charity production of Jeffrey Robinson is Unwell at the Theatre Royal, Ramsbottom, on May 11 and a corporate golf tournament at Bury Golf Club on May 3.

For further details ring 797 1748 or call at the Bury Hospice shop on The Rock.