ROCK legend Sir Elton John and Hollywood star Keira Knightley are just two of the celebrities backing a hospice’s charity ball.

St Benedict’s Hospice, in Ryhope, Sunderland, is holding a James Bond-themed ball on September 26 as it celebrates its 30th anniversary and raises funds for a minibus for those living with life limiting illnesses and their families.

Sir Elton sent the charity a signed ‘Rocket Man’ cap, CD, t-shirt and photos to auction while the Atonement actress has donated a signed photograph.

Celebrities have contributed dozens of signed items to be auctioned off, including a limited edition 007 magazine and pictures from Bond actor Robbie Coltrane, Downton Abbey framed picture signed by the show’s creator Julian Fellows and a top worn by actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, who played Hayley Cropper in Coronation Street.

Prime Minister David Cameron has contributed a pen and pencil set to the auction.

The goodies will be auctioned off at the Diamond and Dinner Jackets ball, which is being held at Ramside Hall Hotel in Durham. The evening will include entertainment from the twelve-piece Q The Music band.

Derek Moss, chairman of St Benedict’s Hospice Board of Trustees, said: “We wanted to organise a really special event for our 30th anniversary and we thought the glitz and glamour of a James Bond-style spectacular would appeal to all ages.”

For more information and for tickets contact the hospice fundraising team on 0191 512 8435/36.