TICKETS are still available for a black tie ball which aims to make a difference to the lives of young people with special needs across the North East.

Hope 4 Kidz will stage its Hopes and Dreams Ball at Lumley Castle, Chester-le-Street, on Friday, June 9.

The Sunderland-based charity helps disadvantaged young people who are living with life-limiting illnesses, special needs or are in poverty.

Guests will enjoy a four-course dinner, live music and a disco, raffles, auctions, and the chance to win special prizes with all proceeds going directly to the charity, which this year celebrates its 10 year anniversary.

Money raised on the night will go towards an appeal to purchase new parental beds for the chronic sick children’s unit at Sunderland Royal Hospital.

Viv Watts, from Hope 4 Kidz, said: “Parents often have to stay with chronically ill children for many nights sitting up in a chair and this can lead to exhaustion as well as discomfort.

“The beds cost £2000 each and will be integrated into the ward furniture so when they’re not in use they can be stored upright against the wall.

“The ball will raise cash for this appeal as we continue to work hard to make a difference to the lives of young people who need it.”

The event will also raise awareness of the Amber’s Law campaign, set up in memory of 25-year-old Amber Rose Cliff, who lost her life to cervical cancer in January.

Tickets for the Hopes and Dreams ball are £52.50, available on 0191 534 7788.