SINGING prodigy Alex Prior performed at the first Russian Ice Ball in the Rose Room at Twickenham Stadium recently.

The event raised money for The Promise, a charity helping disabled children placed in orphanages in Russia.

Last year Alex went to the orphanage to learn more about the cause and The Promise. The charity was set up in 2003 to help provide a brighter future for disabled children who have been placed in Russian state care.

Vicki Brown, trustee of The Promise, said: "We are delighted that Alex is able to perform for our guests at our fundraising ball. He has an extraordinary voice but also an enormous sensitivity to the needs of children in Russian orphanages."

It was Alex's second time on stage at Twickenham after performing the national anthem in front of 80,000 people before a match between England and the Barbarians.

Described as the "little Pavarotti", the 11-year-old singer, songwriter and musician is already used to the limelight, after performing on such prestigious stages as the Royal Opera House, Carnegie Hall and the Kremlin in Moscow. He was recently awarded the Gold International Medal in Llangollen Eisteddfod and has won seven junior singing competitions.

These impressive credentials are augmented further by the fact that Alex was given an Order of the Silver Cross of the Patron of Arts by the Russian government for his charity work and contribution to peace.

The Promise differs from other charities in Russia in its approach. Staff are trained in an educational method that provides care and attention for children on an individual basis working in a baby home' for children up to the age of four. The charity's work is invaluable in helping overcome the social stigma often attached to disabled children in Russia.

The event on Saturday also featured an auction and raffle prizes as well as the duo Mazaika entertaining guests with traditional Russian folk music.