A HALLOWEEN-themed gourmet dinner is set to tantalise tastebuds and raise money for charity as part of a year-long fundraising partnership between Sir Ian Botham and a five-star resort.

The ghoulish gathering at Rockliffe Hall, in Hurworth, near Darlington, is the first of six events planned at the resort to raise money for Beefy’s Charity Foundation, which supports a number of charities close to the cricket legend’s heart.

The event, hosted by Sola Events, set up by Sir Ian’s daughter, Sarah, starts at 6.45pm on November 5. A table of ten is £850 and includes a three-course gourmet meal with wine and coffee.

Miss Botham said: “It is the first time we have done something in the North-East, which is where we all live, so it is quite special for us to be able to do it our own doorstep.

“It is nice to involve the local community and we are working with local businesses, including Vesuvio, in Darlington, who are providing the wine.

“There is something different at each of the events. None of our events are standard and there will be a surprise at each event.”

Following its launch last year, the charity foundation has donated £20,000 to each of the charities it supports - Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, Cardiac Arrest in the Young, Battens Disease Family Association, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Brain Tumour Research in Yorkshire.

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

* A Christmas carol on December 21, which includes a visit to Santa’s grotto for a party of ten;

* Afternoon tea with novelist Lord Jeffrey Archer on June 19, including a literary talk and fashion show with premium seats for up to six people at both events, 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.

A sponsorship package is also available for £10,000 for promotion at all events.

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