DOZENS of big names from the world of sport and entertainment will take part in a charity golf event which raises thousands of pounds for disabled children.

Bruce Forsyth, Gary Lineker and John Virgo have confirmed they'll be among those teeing off in the Alliss Merlo Pro Celebrity Charity Golf Day at Ferndown Golf Club on September 8.

Others include former England goalkeeper Phil Parkes and footballer Alan Ball and Broadstone golfer Gary Emerson, plus personalities Tom O'Connor, Ed Stewart and ventrioloquist Roger De Courcey. Several other celebrities, including Mike Reid, hope to take part subject to work commitments.

There will also be a host of professional golf players, including Peter Alliss himself.

Teams taking part will hope for better conditions than last year, when the event had to be abandoned part way through due to torrential rain.

Sue Helliker, of Ferndown Golf Club, said: "We have many of the usual faces coming back once again and others who hope to take part too.

"Last year it was terrible weather - everyone was soaked - so this year we will certainly be hoping for dryer conditions."

The event, now in its 17th year, raises more than £30,000 annually, which is split between buying state-of-the-art electric wheelchairs for local children and local charities chosen by the golf club captain.

Admission is free and visitors welcome. A free car park and shuttle bus service will operate from West Parley.