Dorchester Mayor Molly Rennie today urged the town to back a charity casino this weekend.

Roulette and black jack tables will be in full swing at the Corn Exchange on Saturday in support of one of the Mayor's chosen good causes.

The March Hare Extravaganza is being held in aid of the West Dorset voluntary branch of Diabetes UK.

Mrs Rennie was made an honorary vice-president of the charity for her work supporting the good cause.

She hopes townsfolk will support the event by trying their hand on the tombola, casino and roulette and black jack tables.

"Diabetes is my chosen charity this year and I hope people support what should be a fantastic night of entertainment," she said.

"The charity does some excellent work in the community and hopefully people will show some appreciation for their great work," she added.

The charity night is also being backed by Dorchester Round Table, which has also named Diabetes UK as their good cause for the year.

Organisers say cash raised from the extravaganza will go towards funding Diabetes support projects in West Dorset.

Recent projects by the group include making a short video giving information on fitness, exercise and healthy eating.

Spokesman Lynwood Newman said: "In West and North Dorset, there are about 5,000 people who suffer from diabetes and a possible 900 who have not been diagnosed or are unaware they have the illness.

"Modern scientific techniques and research have made it possible for sufferers, once detected, to lead a normal life, supplemented with healthy living, eating and regular check-ups."

Organisers say dress code for the extravaganza is smart casual or optional black tie and cocktail dress.

Tickets are £7.50 each and are available from either Dorchester Tourist Information Centre on 01305 267992 or Lynwood Newman on 07050 619335.