MULLED wine, mince pies and Christmas carols by the fire were just some of the festive treats on offer at a charity event this weekend.

Hundreds of people attended the Christmas carol event at Rockliffe Hall, in Hurworth, near Darlington, this afternoon (Sunday, December 21), to raise money for Sir Ian Botham’s charity foundation.

Carol singers lined the staircase at the five-star resort and mulled wine and mince pies helped to keep the winter chills at bay, while youngsters enjoyed a visit to Santa’s grotto and Christmas stories read by Mrs Claus.

The event was the second in a series of events taking place at the hotel to raise money for causes close to Sir Ian’s heart.

Over the next year, Rockliffe Hall will play host to a number of other fundraising events. These include:

  • Afternoon tea with novelist Lord Jeffrey Archer on June 19, including a literary talk and fashion show with premium seats as well as an exclusive early coffee with Lord Archer and various fashion designers;
  • Botham Merrill Willis (BMW) wine tasting on July 2, with premium tasting places for up to six people and an early VIP drinks reception with the wine makers;
  • A golf day on September 9 for teams of four and a table of ten at a post-golf dinner. Logo placement is also available around the course and at the drinks reception and dinner;
  • An interactive sports quiz with Beefy and friends on October 23, as well as a question and answers session with sporting legends.

For more information or to book, email sarah@solaevents.com or call 020-3416-6468.