A star-studded, action-packed charity summer's evening has already attracted enormous interest and party people are being warned to book early.

Ticket sales for the Richmond May Fair Ball, on Friday May 11, have been snapped up as people guarantee their seat in the marquee on the Green.

The evening, which this year has a Baroque theme, starts with a champagne reception, a chance to ride on the heritage carousel, and a live auction and dancing to The Groove Factory, whose set list runs through 50 years of dance floor favourites.

Guests will be mingling with a virtual Who's Who of Richmond, including celebrity residents from stage, screen and the soaps.

This year's Ball will benefit two local charities: React, the Kew-based national charity which supports financially-disadvantaged children with potentially terminal illness, and the community and education outreach programme at the Orange Tree Theatre.

In keeping with the Baroque theme, the annual children's art competition, sponsored by housebuilder Octagon, will feature a flurry of opulent fan designs. The finished artworks will be part of the decorations in the marquee.

To avoid going onto the waiting list call Gillian Thorpe on 020 8940 014 for tickets and tables now.

Local and national businesses have already pledged sponsorship and donations to the Richmond May Fair Ball including The National Grid, Octagon, Savills, Amarin Corp, Featherstone Leigh, Banham Security, Hotel Chocolat , Obsidian Inv. PepsiCo, The Conservatory Florist and Fitzgibbon Residential.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for local business wishing to support the event. For more information contact Sandy Stewart on 020 8892 4133.