IT PROMISES to be one of the most glittering occasions at the BIC this year - and now a group of Bournemouth people who live in supported housing have been given the chance to attend.

Music in the Mind, a celebration of arts and mental health taking place on Friday, is organised by Bournemouth Life Coach Paul Scates.

The event will feature performances by the singers Beverley Knight, Heather Small and a finale from DJ Ben Ofoedu and guests include Radio 2's Vanessa Feltz, actor Kacey Ainsworth, who played EastEnders character Little Mo, and AFC Bournemouth manger Eddie Howe. The evening will incorporate an awards ceremony for young people as well as theatrical and acrobatic performances.

As the event's creative director, Paul said he had given the tickets to the residents of YOU-CAS (Care and support) because: "It is a privilege for me, as someone who lives with mental health and has been fortunate enough to have received the love, support and validation that everyone of us requires from my family, friends and NHS to be able to give back to those who deserve to be celebrated for the wonderful individuals they are."

The residents will join guests at Music in the Mind which is being held in partnership with a number of organisations, including Heads Together, the charity backed by Prince William, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, which encourages national conversation about mental health issues.

“In addition to the performances we’ll be hosting Dorset’s Inspirational Children and Young People’s awards which is the regional arm of Britain’s Inspirational Children and Young People’s Awards,” said Paul, who said he has brought the event to Bournemouth because of his connections to the town.