HOUSEWIVES, school children and professional musicians will band together to raise the roof at a Herefordshire theatre on December 21.

The 45-strong Bromyard Wind Band will play Christmas carols at the Conquest Theatre from 7.30pm and raise funds for Acorns Children's Hospice three counties appeal.

The band is directed by county teacher and musician, David Thomas, who said all money raised will help Acorns build a new hospice for life-limited children.

"We're a well-known community band and over the years have raised nearly £30,000 for charities. This year we wanted to help Acorns build the new hospice for the care and support of local children," said Mr Thomas.

The band will also play carols outside Bromyard's Falcon pub on Christmas eve from 10am. Proceeds will go to Acorns and the Permananda Orphanage, India.

Tickets for the carol concert are available from the Conquest Theatre box office on 01885 488575.

ENGLAND football fans might be sleeping on Beckham's posh pillow if they win a draw in aid of terminally ill county children.

David Beckham has put his signature on a water pillow in support of the Acorns Children's Hospice £4 million appeal.

The water-filled pillow, distributed by the Cheltenham-based Water Pillow Company, is the prize in a draw running until January 31.

The hospice appeal's Cheryl Lee said: "We are delighted with this support for our appeal. We're organising all sorts of events and challenges to raise money towards our target, but it's the first time we've had anything quite like this."

Draw entrants need to send a minimum donation of £5. A cheque can be sent made payable to Acorns Children's Hospice Trust c/o 12 Royal Crescent, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.