Stars from the sporting and showbiz worlds united in their support for cancer patients at The Christie Hospital charity’s glamorous ball at The Point at Emirates Old Trafford.

Celebrities including Coronation Street actors Catherine Tyldesley and Debbie Rush and singer Rowetta joined in the fun at the spectacular event which raised around £130,000 for specialist research at The Christie Hospital.

Former Premiership referee Mark Halsey, who was a patient at The Christie, attended with his wife Michelle. Other sports personalities supporting the ball included former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton and former Manchester City players Andy Morrison, Alex Williams and Peter Barnes. Lancashire County Cricket Club coach Peter Moores and Manchester United legend David May also took time out of their busy schedules to attend.

For the first time, Manchester City Football Club, Manchester United FC, Salford Red Devils rugby league club and Lancashire County Cricket Club joined forces to host the ball.

Kicking off the evening’s action were hosts TV and radio presenter Hugh Ferris and Sky Sports presenter Hayley McQueen. The 80s pop band ABC with lead singer Martin Fry headlined the event.

Comedian Jason Manford sang a Tom Jones’ selection with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band. Located in Withington, The Christie has been pioneering cancer research for more than 100 years and is the largest cancer centre in Europe. All funds raised at the ball will support specialist research at The Christie.