A SPARKLING idea will help raise money for the Sparkle Appeal in aid of a new centre for disabled children.

This weekend sees the first Ladies Day organised by two members of the Newport and Gwent Business Women's Network - and money raised will go towards to the South Gwent Children's Foundation's appeal.

The charity needs to raise £6m to build and equip a centre at High Cross, Newport, for 1,200 disabled children, and their families, from across South Gwent - and the Argus wants to raise £250,000 this year towards that.

A purpose-built centre is needed to meet all the health and other needs of these children and their families. Among those youngsters who will benefit is seven-year-old Rebecca Maggs, of Newport, who needs ongoing expert treatment and care.

More than 20 local businesses will join together on Sunday at the Parkway Hotel, Cwmbran, to bring a range of gifts and services for women, and raising money for the Sparkle Appeal.

V.I.P Jewellery, a Cwmbran-based mother and daughter partnership, and Kerry's Collections, selling ball gowns and cocktail dresses, worked together to arrange the day.

Verity Imm, from V.I.P Jewellery, said they had received a lot of interest from people wanting to get involved and attend the event.

She said: "There are an amazing range of products and services available at the day that are exclusive, original, novel or just simply wacky."

Some of the stalls are to include reflexology, cakes, chocolates, teddy bears, paintings, hats, jewellery, handbags, candles and a beautician.

Verity said that although the Ladies Day was aimed at women, men were most welcome. Each stall at the day will donate a prize for the raffle and all proceeds for the raffle will go to the Sparkle Appeal.

The Ladies Day will be held at the Pembroke Suite, The Parkway Hotel, Cwmbran, on Sunday from 10am until 4pm.