THE WOMAN who masterminded a star-studded charity gala night is in the line up for Cheshire Women of the Year.

Anna Fern, 45, is at the cutting edge of the retail clothing trade but still finds time to devote energy to others.

She has raised more than £100,000 for charities in the area by promoting fashion shows for the NSPCC and has organised the glittering Starburst Gala Ball at Tatton Park for three years in a row, which led to major donations for the Prince's Trust, St Anne's Hospice and Francis House.

The gala night is now a regular feature of the Cheshire social calendar and one of the biggest one-night cash earners which attracts celebrities from across the region.

The former St Hilary's School girl, who runs the Blue Lagoon fashion shop in Alderley Edge, will be among women to be honoured at the annual Cheshire Woman of the Year ceremony to be held at Chester Town Hall on March 20.

Other women nominated include Marjorie Ashworth of Over Alderley for her dedication to fundraising for Cancer Research and the annual Christmas Card Charity Shop in Wilmslow.

Philippa Mort of Mobberley, also a major charity supporter and Knutsford historian Joan Leach are also among the nominations.

The event, now in its 17th year recognises women who have performed outstanding community service, shown personal courage or professional achievement.

Awards will be presented by the Mayoress of Chester, Councillor Sue Proctor, who will attend the lunch at the historic Council Chambers.

Speaker is Dr Vivienne Nathanson, head of Central Services and International Affairs at the British Medical Association.

Television presenter Lucy Meacock who presents Granada Reports and the award winning current affairs programme The Late Debate will make the presentations.

The winner will be announced during the lunch and presented with a silver award and a cheque for £1000 to be given to the charity of her own choice.

Through sponsorship the Cheshire Women of the Year Awards raises cash for the NSPCC in the north west and in the past 16 years has led to donations of more than £100,000.