PRESTIGIOUS guests speakers are expected to attend a charity Burns Supper in Glasgow.

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and comedian Karen Dunbar will address guests at the event to raise money for the Scottish Spina Bifida Association.

Chaired by Lord Robertson of Port Ellen, the supper promises a fantastic evening of entertainment at the Glasgow Hilton on Thursday, January 23.

Guests will be welcomed by pipers at a Champagne reception, followed by a Scottish-themed five-course meal.

Money raised at the Supper will help fund the Scottish Spina Bifida Association, which supports 3500 children, young adults and families affected by spina bifida and or hydrocephalus.

Dr Margo Whiteford, chairwoman of the charity and our Evening Times Scotswoman of the Year 2009, said: "Sadly, Scotland has one of the highest incidences of spina bifida, which is one of the most common and severe birth defects in Europe.

"The SSBA is the only charity in Scotland dedicated to providing advice, advocacy and support for people born with the conditions.

"The charity receives less than 1% statutory funding, and yet, they need to raise £1 million every year to fund their specialist support centre and its services, an essential lifeline for the Scottish families living with spina bifida and hydrocephalus - both of which cause complex, incurable, lifelong disabilities.

"The Scottish Spina Bifida Association encourages all children affected by the disabilities to be the best they can be in life, despite living with many debilitating health problems."

Tables of 10 at the charity dinner are priced at £800, or £85 per head.

Early bird discounts are also available enabling you to purchase a second table of 10 for only £400 when reserving a table of 10 at £800.

Guests are invited for 6.15 to 6.45pm, with dinner being served at 7pm.

To reserve tickets online go to www.ssba.org.uk/burnssupper, email fundraising@ssba.org.uk or call 01236 794508 from next Monday.

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk