THE star of a fly-on-the-wall documentary featuring a Lake District hotel has used his organisational skills to help a cancer charity.

Wayne Bartholomew, manager of the Damson Dene Hotel, Crosthwaite, has organised the Ladies Day At The Races event to raise cash for CancerCare.

Wayne - known as Barty to his friends - generated a loyal following after being shown on the Channel 4 documentary Hotel.

He said he wanted to do something for CancerCare because his close friend, Jill Santamera, of Windermere, is battling the illness.

He has known Jill for 15 yrs through the hotel industry and was there for her when she was diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2003.

CancerCare senior fundraiser Helen Hartin said: "Jill used CancerCare services at the Lakes Centre in Blackhall Rd, Kendal, and we helped her through her diagnoses.

"Wayne saw just how much this benefitted Jill and wants to help us help other local cancer patients like her."

The fundraising event is on Thursday, June 16, between 12-5pm at the Macdonald Old England Hotel and Spa.

"It is a chance for all those ladies to get their best frocks and hats on and enjoy ladies day at Ascot without having to travel," said Helen.

There will be plasma screens showing live broadcasts on all the ascot races and racegoers can bet on the day.

Entertainment will be provided by the Mohito Cocktail Flair bartenders, The Lakes Men Jazz Band and a female vocalis.

Fresh from his 'stardom' in the Hotel series, Wayne Bartholemew will take on the role of MC.

Tickets are £40 and include reception drink and canapes, two free cocktails and lunch in the Old England Hotel garden (weather permitting - if not it will go inside).

In addition, there will also be lots of spot prizes and one for the best hat.

Tickets are going fast but if you want to be part of this special event where all the proceeds go to CancerCare to help local cancer patients, phone CancerCare on 01524 381820.