Children at the Cancer Unit at the RVI hospital are to benefit from a special auction evening being held on February 1st to help celebrate Chinese New Year in the city.

The evening is being hosted by the Dragon Project, which is an integral part of the Grainger Town initiative to regenerate the historic heart of Newcastle. The Dragon Project's role in this flagship scheme is to encourage the city's growing Chinese community in diversifying away from its traditional reliance on catering.

The Leader of Newcastle City Council and Chair of the Grainger Town Partnership, Tony Flynn was present at the special evening which was held at the Palace Garden Restaurant in Stowell Street. Also in attendance will be the Deputy Lord Mayor of Newcastle.

More than 200 people attended and the event raised almost £3,000 for the R.V.I.S. Children's Cancer Fund.

In addition to the main banquet, the evening featured a charity raffle and auction. Prizes included a Sony CD system, a signed Sunderland AFC football, tickets for the forthcoming Newcastle Vs Watford game, a Feng Shui consultation, and others donated by regional radio stations and local businesses.

The Grainger Town Project is committed to the development of this historic area of Newcastle with the aim of the creation of a vibrant living and working area for both tourists and locals alike.

Leader of Newcastle City Council and Chair of the Grainger Town Partnership Tony Flynn said, "Events like this show that the Grainger Town Project is not only committed to the development of the area itself, but also to the people who live and work in the city. The Children's Cancer fund is a very worthwhile charity and I am very pleased to be taking part."

Tony Yau, who runs the Dragon Project said, "Everyone present had a wonderful time and the evening was a roaring success. I am very grateful to all the sponsors and everyone who supported the evening."

To see photos on the evening click here