STARS from the worlds of sport and entertainment gathered in the North-East tonight to take the total raised for Sir Bobby Robson's cancer charity to more than £1m.

The Night of All Knights, one of the most high profile celebrity bashes held in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, was graced by not only the former England boss and North-East icon, but also Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Charlton.

Ex-England captains Bryan Robson and Alan Shearer were also present.

Simply Red's Mick Hucknall topped the bill of live performers, while Sky Sports presenter Richard Keys, the Durham School Big Band, Middlesbrough pop duo Journey South and opera star Graeme Danby were on hand, joined by hundreds of well-wishers and admirers of Sir Bobby, determined to do their bit to support his cause.

The 75-year-old former Newcastle manager launched his foundation in March in the hope of raising £500,000 to set up a centre for the early detection and treatment of cancer after being diagnosed with the disease for the fifth time.

Before last night's event at Rainton Meadows Suites, Houghton-le-Spring, £850,000 had already been raised for the fund, and with 1,000 tickets sold at £150 a head, the appeal has now topped £1m.

Speaking on the red carpet tonight, Sir Bobby said: "I have had a lot of kindness and generosity from ordinary people with fivers and tenners and cheques for £25.

"I have had people putting cash into my hands, just saying "put that towards your charity".

"The kindness and generosity and faithfulness of people has been absolutely overwhelming."

When asked about his health, he replied: "I am fighting and I am doing very well.

"I have some small health problems and I am having radiotherapy which has resulted in me losing my hair but I am eating, sleeping, going to football and trying to get as much enjoyment out of life as I can."

Long-time friend Sir Alex Ferguson said: "Bobby is a special person. The whole of football would love to be here tonight - we are privileged.

"When Bobby puts his heart and soul into something you're going to get a big response.

"He is a down to earth man who's never changed. His enthusiasm and passion have captured everyone's imagination.

"Throughout his football life that's always been the case. He is an amazing man."

For a full report and pictures, see tomorrow's Northern Echo