A CHARITY ball to raise money for needy children is expected to be the biggest yet.

The 2008 ChildLine Emerald Ball is being held early next year at the Gateshead Hilton.

Proceeds will support Child- Line's free 24-hour confidential helpline for youngsters.

Tickets are expected to sell out fast as last year's Ruby themed event attracted more than 300 guests and raised more than £36,000.

The ball includes a four course meal and champagne reception.

Dennis Clark, special events manager for the NSPCC in the North, said: "The ChildLine Emerald Ball looks set to be a magical event that will raise a substantial amount of money to help support children.

"Every day, around 2,500 children and young people call Child- Line, but due to lack of funding, only half of these calls can be answered.

"Children who ring us can be in real danger, and be desperately lonely or bullied and without ChildLine, they would have nowhere to turn for help.

"More and more children do get through but, obviously, we need to pay for their calls and we still need more volunteers who will help us reach our goal of answering every child's call the first time they ring."

The event has entertainment acts including MC Jon Hammond, the Dean Solomon Band and comedy performers sponsored by SFM Legal and Financial Services.

The firm's managing partner Malcolm Graham said: "Child- Line is a vital service for children and young people in the North- East and we are proud to be supporting this event for the second year running.

"As a father of two children myself, I can understand the impact that the helpline can have on a child's life, so I am urging members of the public and local businesses to buy tickets and come along to the ball and have a brilliant night and contribute towards a worthy cause."

The event is taking place on Friday, February 29, at the Newcastle Gateshead Hilton, starting at 7.00pm.

Tickets are £60 per person and tables seat either ten or 12 people.

Prize donations will be gratefully received and people are asked to contact Dennis Clark on 01661- 881466 or email dclark@nspcc.

org.uk to book tickets.