Controversial peer and novelist Lord Archer went into action to help raise more than £77,000 for the Epsom-based SeeAbility charity.

The charity, formerly known as the Royal School for the Blind, hosted glamorous Sunburst Ball at the RAC Club in London, on Saturday, October 17.

More than 140 guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner followed by dancing to a live band.

Then Lord Archer stepped up to act as guest auctioneer to preside over a variety of lots including a portrait commission by artist June Mendozza and a chance to meet former Boyzone singer Ronan Keating.

SeeAbility provides a range of groundbreaking services for people with a visual impairment and additional disabilities.

Liz Johnson, the event organiser said: “It was a fantastic event and we’re absolutely delighted with its success.

"We are currently undergoing a major growth phase with an increasing demand for our services and funds raised will help towards meeting this growing need.”

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