Corks will be popping at a fundraising party on Thursday to help needy people enjoy their Christmas that little bit more.

Jonathan Bowles of the Run Ashore Roving Diners Club is hosting a Beaujolais party with Darryl Chaffey of D’s Steak Bar in Deal High Street from 7.30pm.

The friends hope to raise enough cash to buy the meat for a Boxing Day celebration at St George’s Hall by a good cause called ACE.

Now in its 27th year, ACE (Alternative Christmas Event) is a free meal, with live music and a raffle.

The day is organised by about 30 ACE volunteers who even pick up and drive the diners home.

Mr Bowles and Mr Chaffey’s gesture was sparked by an appeal in the Mercury last Thursday asking for restauranteurs to come to the rescue by donating, and cooking the food for the bash.

Mr Bowles, who also owns the Rally Drivers’ Club drove to France to get the wine on a Beaujolais Rally in his Ford RS 2000 on Friday.

The pair plan to source a good supplier for the meat, which will be purchased with the proceeds of thursday's party.

• For tickets, costing £15, email events@runashore.co.uk for collection and payment on the door.

Anyone wishing to help is asked to contact ACE committee members Terry and Georgina Bishop on 07974 684162 or emailbishop76ge@aol.com.