FINAL preparations are in place to make sure the Evening News-backed Acorns Summer Ball goes with a bang.

Auction lots have been secured and a live band signed up for the event, which will take place on Saturday.

Bidders can pit their wallets against each other for two tickets to an Aston Villa football match or, if rugby is your thing, then there's a chance to get your hands on a signed England rugby shirt and shorts.

Another lot on offer is an overnight stay at Brockencote Hall, at Chaddesley Corbett.

A cricket shirt signed by Worcestershire County Cricket Club's Graeme Hick will also be up for grabs.

Radio 4 cricket commentator Henry Blofeld has donated his autobiography, A Thirst for Life, and a second book, Cricket and All That - an Irreverent History.

Revellers at the black-tie event can look forward to a three-course meal, and band Soul Survivor will entertain revellers.

Dave Bradley, from BBC Hereford & Worcester, will compere the evening and Richard Williams will stage the auction.

"We hope the event will raise a huge amount of money for Acorns," said Evening News editor Stewart Gilbert.

"But there are only a few tickets left, so people should hurry if they want to go along.

"It's going to be a wonderful night and will raise money for such a good cause."

Guests will be able to see a display revealing a round-up of the Acorns fund-raising campaign so far, including pictures of the proposed new unit and an update on the total amount of cash raised.

Tickets to the event, costing £35 are available from Kathy Leather on 01905 454183.