A LEFTWICH man, who has been moved by images of UK soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan, has organised a local fundraising event in aid of Help for Heroes.

Paul Oakes, a painter and decorator, said although the evening – at Northwich Memorial Hall, on Friday, March 19 – is in aid of soldiers who had been wounded, it would be ‘anything but sombre’.

There will live music, comedy and dancing. Performers include Wonderboogie, a 70s disco band, and Leslie Gibson, a celebrity impressionist.

Mr Oakes said the evening was a chance for the Northwich community to do something together to help the people who are fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“I feel honoured that the men and women of the British armed forces work so hard on our behalf and thought it was time that I did something for them,” he said.

He is hoping more than 500 people will attend the event and help to raise thousands for Help for Heroes.

Donations will be collected on the night and Cheshire Army Cadets will be selling Help for Heroes merchandise.

There will also be a raffle and a number of local businesses have donated prizes, including a meal for two at The Emperor’s Court and the Seafarer Restaurant.

Sainsbury’s has given a £20 voucher and other donated prizes include products from local shops.

Help for Heroes is currently trying to raise £10m to build personal recovery centres for wounded soldiers.

Tickets cost £10 and will be on sale from the February 5 at Northwich Memorial Hall Box Office. Call 01606 814640 for more details.