AN X Factor star and a London auctioneer will help a centre which supports anyone with cancer and their families in hosting its first ever gala event.

The Hummingbird Cancer Support and Therapy Centre, based in Launton near Bicester, is planning to bring the ‘glitz and glam’ to the town for the big fundraiser.

It will include a dinner and auction to raise funds for the charity which relies solely on volunteers and donations.

The idea to host a glamorous ball came from one of the team at the centre and they were encouraged to put the plans into action.

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Part of the organising team Liz Hughes, who has volunteered with the centre for two years, said: “It just felt like the right time to put on an event like this to raise funds and awareness.

“We rely on the generosity and support of local businesses and individuals who donate and fundraise for us to keep the centre going. The Hummingbird is run entirely by volunteers and our services are offered free of charge to the community.

“The gala dinner will provide another way for us to continue fundraising and to get the charity out there.”

The ‘Black Tie’ event will be held on Friday, March 22, at The Tythe Barn in Launton, near Bicester, and includes drinks, canapes, raffle and dinner.

The auction will be hosted by James Kendling of Auction Revolution in London and music from Jacqueline Faye of X Factor fame.

Ms Faye graced television screens when she sang on the ITV show X Factor wowing judges Simon Cowell and Robbie Williams.

Tickets will be £60 and funds raised on the night will go towards supporting The Hummingbird Centres work.

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Ms Hughes added: “The centre, for me, is a sanctuary for people that are affected by cancer either themselves, families and carers

“There is nothing clinical about the centre and people are able to come and totally relax in a caring and supportive environment.

“Guests often tell us how much they rely on the centre and its services, and to hear these kind of comments means everything.”

For tickets thehummingbirdcentre.org.uk