THE Daily Echo's Pot of Gold appeal was given a big boost when 350 people enjoyed an informal Italian food and wine tasting in Bournemouth.

The event, at the Carrington House Hotel in Knyveton Road, was staged by Asda St Paul's, with staff giving up their spare time to help serve the wine.

Organiser Sharon Wells from the store said: "It was a very successful evening and I would like to thank all the customers who helped us raise more than £2,500 for the charity."

The venue was decorated Italian-style and entertainment included a traditional accordionist. Guests were led through a list of eight red and white wines by two experts, finishing with a celebratory glass of bubbly.

Each table also had a platter of Italian delicacies.

The tiramisu - a traditional Italian dessert - was prepared by Sharon and Rosanna Curtis from Asda's delicatessen counter under the guidance of the manager of Gino's restaurant. The owner of Gino's, Lorenzo Maraspin and his wife Jenny were also there to lend support.

There was an auction, with one popular lot a two-minute trolley dash around ASDA.

All the money raised will go into the Daily Echo's centenary Pot of Gold appeal. Half of the pot will be split between four main charities, the Julia Perks Foundation, HyPed, the Royal Bournemouth Hospital's Gamma Appeal and Pramacare.

The rest will be given to other local good causes nominated by our readers.