AMIR Khan helped to turn the Mayor of Bolton's Valentine Ball into a big hit.

The boxing star turned up with his family to support the annual charity bash.

The 18-year-old from Heaton also brought with him a signed boxing glove to be auctioned off to raise money for charities chosen by the Mayor, Cllr Frank White.

More than 700 people turned up for the black tie event at the Premier Suite at the Reebok on Friday night.

There was also a host of other prizes to bid for, including a Bolton Wanderers shirt signed by the team.

Guests enjoyed a four-course meal and were entertained by Frank Sinatra soundalike Phil Fryer and Luther Vandross impersonator Harry Cambridge, a former Stars in Their Eyes contestant.

The proceeds of the event will go to Bolton Hospice, Bolton Sea Cadets and the Victim Support and Witness Service.

The exact amount raised will not be known until early next week.

Cllr White said: "It was a tremendous evening, enjoyed by all.

"We were delighted that Amir turned up and donated a signed glove for the auction. Everyone was queueing to talk to him and get his autograph."

The event was brought to a premature end at 12.30am when a dry ice machine set off a smoke alarm and the building had to be evacuated half-an-hour before it was due to finish.