The Cumbria Flood Appeal is set to get a new boost as a leading hotel looks to raise thousands of pounds at an autumn ball next month.

North Lakes Hotel & Spa, in Penrith, is hosting the charity extravaganza on Friday, September 30.

The evening will include a 3-course meal and entertainment, along with an auction and raffle.

Prizes on offer include VIP tickets for the British Superbikes Final, a chef and waiter for the night, taster flight session, spa days and family tickets for local attractions.

Organiser Sue Gardham, the hotel’s personnel and training manager, said: “It’s going to be a fantastic evening.

“It’s a chance for people to get dressed up and come and enjoy an exquisite meal, some great entertainment and raise money for a very worthy local cause.

“This is the first time I’ve organised anything like this and it’s been amazing to see the reaction we’ve had.”

The Cumbria Flood Appeal is a charity that’s close to the heart of the hotel as staff helped support both the rescue and recovery.

Maintenance and facilities manager Mark Phillips-Craig played a key role in helping people caught up in the flooding.

Alongside his role at the hotel, he is a part-time firefighter and was awarded a commendation for his part in rescuing six people from Pooley Bridge, who were trapped in their home.

When the full extent of the flood disaster became clear, the kitchen team at the hotel sprung into action, providing hot meals for residents of Eamont Bridge who were left without power.

Volunteers from the hotel gave up their time to serve meals to around 30 people a night for two weeks while residents started clean-up efforts.

Sue added: “Everyone at the hotel has been keen to help people get back on their feet after the flooding. We know some people are still not back in their homes seven months on and we wanted to do something to support them in some small way.”

Staff at North Lakes Hotel & Spa have been pulling together to make the event a night to remember.

The menu has been designed by chef de partie Jack Morton, the first time he has put together a menu of this nature. Prizes have been sought by the conference team and local suppliers of the hotel have joined in by offering their services for the event.

Tickets, priced £30, are still available. To book call Jen Braithwaite on 01768 868111. Prizes can also be donated too - contact Sue Gardham on the same number.