Players from Gloucestershire County Cricket Club are to exchange their cricket whites for fashion at a charity function in aid of the Arthritis Research Campaign.

The cricketers will model the latest designs at an evening of fun, food and fashion to be held at the Byzantium Restaurant in Bristol on Thursday April 5th. The aim or the evening is not only to raise funds towards the Arthritis Research Campaign but also to raise awareness that this debilitating disease can strike young people and children as well as the more elderly.

Martyn Ball, one of the Gloucestershire players says, "We are delighted to have the opportunity to support this important charity and when we were asked to provide some male models, our players jumped at the chance. The event has coincided with the start of our season and is a fun thing to do before we embark on defending our title of one-day champions."

The treble winning Gloucestershire side had been looking to extend it's existing charitable support and as a result of it's involvement in the fashion evening, the team has adopted the Arthritis Research Campaign as it's nominated charity for the forthcoming cricket season.

It hopes to become involved in other fund raising events for the campaign throughout the year. The fashion event will include both men's and ladies clothing supplied by Clifton retailers Outfit and Palermo as well as John Anthony and Austin Reed. Hair will be done by Maximum FX. It is being organized by local company Kudos Events on behalf of a 25-year-old arthritis sufferer, Laura Opie, who lives in Bristol. The evening will include the fashion Show, reception, dinner and dancing.

Contact details: Event: Louisa Purvis or Sandra Webber- Kudos Events 01454853335 Arthritis Research Campaign: Mary Opie 0117 968 5399

© CricInfo Ltd.