TELEVISION veteran Michael Parkinson will be doing his bit for charity next month - by taking tea in North Yorkshire.

The chat show king has agreed to attend a refreshing event at the Garden Room Restaurant, in Harrogate's Harlow Carr gardens, on May 31.

The event is being organised by the local support group of Marie Curie and proceeds will go towards improving nursing care in the county.

Earlier the same day Parky will be the speaker at lunch in aid of the charity, at Rudding Park, near Harrogate.

Community fundraiser Susie Fothergill said: "We are privileged to have the support of Mr Parkinson for the work of Marie Curie locally. The tea is an extra event that Michael is adding to his busy schedule by popular request."

The lunch is already a sell-out, and the event at the Garden Room Restaurant begins at 3.45pm, with a drinks reception followed by high tea.

Tickets cost £20. For details, call (01904) 621000.