A STAR-studded charity bash attracted a string of celebrities and VIPs last week to help raise money for poorly youngsters.

The showbiz party was hosted by billionaire businessman John Caudwell, whose telecommunications companies and logistics firms are amongst Crewe's largest employers.

The event was aimed at raising £1.5million on a single night for the Caudwell Charity, which helps suffering children with donations of treatment, therapy, specialised equipment and dying wish holidays.

Amongst the 1,600 guests were celebrities Jordan and Peter Andre, former Steps star Lisa Scott-Lee, Big Brother's Nadia and vocalist Rowetta of X Factor fame.

From the world of sport there was former boxer Frank Bruno, 1966 World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst, England cricketers and Ashes heroes Kevin Pieterson and Ashley Giles, and Olympic athletes Du'aine Ladejo and Diane Modahl.

Brit Award winners Liberty X and singer Rachel Stevens performed at the party hosted at the businessman's Jacobean mansion Broughton Hall in Staffordshire.

Speaking before the party, the band's Michelle Heaton said: "It's great that so many people come together to donate their time, effort and money to help sick children.

"I know last year the charity ball raised more than £1 million, which is an amazing amount to raise on one night. I'm sure we'll help the charity do even better this year."

Guests at the charity ball were able to bid for a spectacular string of prizes including tennis lessons from 19-year-old Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova.

Also up for grabs was a dinner with a countess in Venice, snowboarding in New Zealand and the chance to experience the Bentley Speed 8, winner of the Le Mans 24 hour race.