SIR Ian Botham and members of Spandau Ballet were interviewed by Sir Michael Parkinson at a charity event in the region last night.

The Forget Me Not Dinner was held at Rainton Meadows Arena, near Houghton-le-Spring, Wearside, in support of blood cancer charity Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

Spandau Ballet members Tony Hadley and John Keeble also performed some of their hits for diners.

Sir Stuart Rose, outgoing chairman of Marks and Spencer, which has supported the charity this year, handed over £250,000.

Sir Ian said: “It is great to bring this event to the North-East, where Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research was founded 50 years ago.

“The support up here is amazing. As I spent my last playing days in Durham, it is where I call home. The passion for sport up here is undeniable.”