A Christmas gifts and partywear extravaganza in Darwen, offering classy and fashionable party wear, will raise money for elderly people over the festive season.

The event, which has clothing, bags, toys and gifts for sale, takes place tomorrow in the Help the Aged shop in School Street, from 10am.

Nina Penney, shop manager, said: "This party is an occasion to raise some funds to secure and support older people everywhere, especially now that the cold season is upon us and they will need more care than usual.

"All money that is raised through Help the Aged shops this winter goes towards funding the charity's work to free disadvantaged older people from poverty, isolation and neglect.

She added: "The number of older people over 65 who die in the UK each winter from avoidable illness is scandal."

Everyone is invited to enjoy a glass of wine and nibbles.