AN X Factor star has spoken of his pride at taking part in a Ladies’ Day event to raise funds for a North-East hospice.

Danyl Johnson shot to fame on The X Factor in 2009, giving what judge Simon Cowell called “the best first audition I have ever heard” and eventually coming fourth.

He now regularly appears on television to promote the Post Code Lottery.

Danyl’s latest booking is as the star of Ladies’ Day in aid of Butterwick Hospice Care in the Grand Marquee at Wynyard Hall on March 17.

Danyl, 36, said: “I’ve learned a lot about hospice care and the hospice movement through the X Factor and the Postcode Lottery, and I couldn’t be prouder to be involved with a cause like Butterwick Hospice Care.

“Although they provide much-needed care, hospices aren’t always talked about, and I don’t think everyone always understands how hard they have to work for to secure funding and raise awareness so they can carry on doing vital work.

“I love this part of the job; I get to meet people who are making a real difference and doing a tremendous amount of good in the world. Seeing what organisations like Butterwick Hospice do is incredibly touching, and I hope I’ll be able to help again in the future.”

The event offers ladies the chance to let their hair down and have some fun. As well as entertainment from Danyl, the afternoon is hosted by Joe Lawson, and tickets include a glass of prosecco on arrival, a two-course meal, and live music from local Teesside band The Last Anthem and acoustic guitarist Jake Balfour.

Lyndsey Barnes, event organiser, said: “This is a chance for the ladies of the region to cut loose and have some girly fun, enjoy some top-class entertainment, and taste some delicious food, all in aid of a vital local cause.

“We’re over the moon that Danyl will be performing as part of really great live music line-up, and we hope that ladies from all of the North-East will join us to raise as much money as possible to help terminally ill people in our communities.”

The Christian Alexander boutique, of Stockton, will be sponsoring a Best Dressed Lady Contest.

The event starts at 12 noon. Tickets cost £45 each and are available by calling 01642 628930, or online from www.butterwick.org.uk.