THE use of a top-of-the-range sports car for the weekend will be one of the items up for auction at a Christmas charity ball this month.

The Children's Hope Foundation, which looks after youngsters with special needs, is holding its annual Little Angels Christmas Ball at Lumley Castle, near Chester-le-Street, on November 29.

There will be a charity auction where one of the prizes will be the use of an X-type Jaguar car for the weekend, courtesy of Reg Vardy Specialist Cars.

The ball is being held to raise funds for the foundation, which offers children and young people with special needs, educational support and equipment.

Tickets for the event, which includes a four-course dinner and live entertainment are £40 and available by calling the foundation on (0191) 4210581 or 0781 8023081.

Discounted accommodation will also be available.