A FUNDRAISING evening with former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has boosted the Christie.

Former footballers such as Clayton Blackmore and Tony Coton mingled with guests at Hotel Football in Old Trafford.

The evening was hosted by Key 103 radio host Mike Toolan.

The exclusive event allowed 200 lucky guests a rare insight into the man behind the managerial legend and a unique opportunity to find out more about his extraordinary career.

The Christie, one of the leading cancer centres in Europe, is raising funds for proton beam therapy research.

Proton beam therapy is a specialist form of radiotherapy that targets certain cancers very precisely, increasing success rates and reducing side effects.

It is particularly appropriate for desperately ill children with cancer who need the very latest and safest radiation treatment.

Sir Alex said: “I was honoured to be asked to support a Manchester institution like the Christie with such an important fundraising ask.

"Proton beam therapy will be life changing for people all over the country and research will only help the Christie give more people a fighting chance against cancer.”

Roger Spencer, chief executive at the Christie, said; “Sir Alex Ferguson is a living legend and we were thrilled when he offered to host an event for us.

"The Christie is just one of two national centres that will be delivering high energy proton therapy to the rest of the UK. They money raised tonight will help us fund a research room within the new centre improving treatment and outcomes for patients.”

On the night, VIP guests enjoyed a meet and greet with Sir Alex along with first-hand insight into his thoughts on the highlights of his career, dinner and free entry into a draw to ask Sir Alex a question.

There was also an auction which included rare items such as a signed limited edition Harold Riley sketched record of United’s 1999 European Cup journey, signed Ryan Giggs boots, golfing at Gleneagles and VIP tickets to see Adele.