DOZENS of women gathered to fundraise for the victims of the Manchester Arena attack and celebrate a newly revamped Prestwich restaurant.

The Ladies Who Lunch event was held at Babbo, formerly known as Saporito, in Scholes Lane, which relaunched earlier this year after undergoing a multi-thousand pound makeover.

Organised by The Edge Events, with two of Babbo's owner’s sisters Olivia Edwards and Laura Griffin, the lunch raised more than £220 for Myro Doodle's 22 Bee Project.

Created by artist Myroslava Coates the project is known for the sketching of bees on shop windows to raise funds for the Manchester Emergency Appeal.

The 85 women were treated to a Prosecco reception and canapes before enjoying a meal from Babbo's new lunch menu, with pink gin and cocktails.

They were also entertained by star Manchester saxophone player, Carlo Sax, who got everyone on their feet and dancing.

Among the guests were a number of Manchester celebrities, including Miss Manchester Fatime Gashi, Miss Manchester Pageant's Zoe-Lea Dale, model Emily Wright and X Factor Star Goldie Cheung.

Caroline Dowse from Northern Revive Magazine, who attended the lunch said: "What an event, Lyn certainly knows how to deliver in style. Fabulous food, glamorous ladies and top-notch entertainment, all presented in a vibrant, classy venue. Loved it."

Zoe-Lea Dale, added: "Had the loveliest afternoon at Babbo Italian restaurant for ladies lunch. The food was amazing but the company was better. I wish lunch was always this exciting."

After the meal the ladies were joined by more guests to sample products and gifts from stalls set up by local businesses and supporters including Ratnali Jewellery, Tropic Gorgeous, Allumi and World Privilege Plus, and a raffle was held.

The Edge Events said that the event had been a great success and that she had been delighted to be asked to organise the lunch.

To donate to The 22 Bees Project visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/the22beesproject.