A Marilyn Monroe look-alike helped raise more than £55,000 for charity at a Vegas-style ball.

Impersonator Helen Kane placed the bets in a flashy casino while Ivor Potter, alias Suspiciously Elvis, serenaded the audience with some favourite songs of his hero including the hit Viva Las Vegas, which gave the ball its title.

More than 600 people dressed to impress at the glittering event at The Metropole Hotel, Brighton, on Saturday night which raised at least £55,000 for The Rockinghorse Appeal.

They were greeted by showgirls and cowboys from the KBis Theatre School who put on a dazzling dance performance during a champagne reception and three-course dinner.

The crowd also enjoyed a spot of gambling in the casino which included roulette, blackjack, a rodeo and rows of slot machines.

Many went for a ride on a full-size carousel which organisers managed to install inside the hotel.

The appeal's fund-raising manager, Melanie Evans, said: "The atmosphere was fantastic and the guests had an exciting evening. We are delighted we have raised so much.

"Everyone dressed in glitzy ball gowns and dinner jackets and many bought Elvis and Marilyn Monroe clothing which they wore during the evening. It really was fun."

The money raised will help buy medical equipment for The Royal Alexandra Hospital for Sick Children in Brighton.

Guests included BBC TV presenter Dave Benson-Phillips, Olympic gold medallist Sally Gunnell, who is the appeal's vice president, and patron Lady Mary Mumford.

The event was hosted by compere Danny Pike from Southern FM radio.

The crowd played table games during the black-tie dinner before bidding for prizes in a celebrity auction.

Prizes included Virgin Atlantic tickets to America which were donated by Sir Richard Branson, coffee with Chris Eubank and a signed Liverpool football shirt.

The charity's role in supporting the Royal Alex was highlighted in a film featuring Sally Gunnell.