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Charity night for Andy Cole's orphan appeal

4/12/2001

FOOTBALLER Andy Cole's campaign to help Zimbabwean orphans is to receive a Christmas boost at a star-studded charity night in Alderley Edge.

The Man United and England striker will lead the high profile fund raising event at Brasingamens on Wednesday December 19.

Money raised will go to the Mbuya Nehanda Children's Centre in Zimbabwe, which houses kids whose parents have died from AIDS.

Chris Clarke, press officer of the Andy Cole Children's Foundation, said: "This should be a fantastic night and we are confident that a lot of money will be raised for the charity.

"Andy will be attending the event along with a number of other special guests."

The Andy Cole Children's Foundation is dedicated to assisting orphaned children across the world and has been instrumental in establishing the Mbuya Nehanda Centre, based near Harare, which is home to 100 children.

Further funding is needed to continue developing the centre in troubled Zimbabwe and to keep kids warm and fed.

Wilmslow-based Cole, who visited the centre last year, said: "We are trying to bring them some relief, care and education, and perhaps even a real home."

Chris added: "Over the next few years we hope to help fund much more of the work there, including providing a sustainable future through income generating activities, like crop production.

"We hope this night will help us continue this funding."

The event at the London Road nightspot will feature top DJs from Manchester and extra funds will be made on the night with a charity auction and raffle. Tickets, which are available on the door, are priced at £20. The evening starts at 7pm.

"It should be a thoroughly entertaining night and money raised will go to an excellent cause," said Chris.