"FURIOUSLY fabulous females", acclaimed poet, Donna Jones MBE and award-winning writer, Joan Ellis, aka THEM 2, are performing their quirky mix of poetry, prose and anecdotes in aid of Earl Mountbatten Hospice.

For one night only at 7pm on Thursday, April 19, Donna and Joan will perform at the John Cheverton Centre.

After taking early retirement in 2010, Donna moved to the Isle of Wight to focus on her writing and poetry. Donna performs widely across the UK and North Carolina, and has published three poetry books.

Joan performs at spoken word and literary festivals, including this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, and has penned four five star books.

Admission to the evening is £10, and includes wine and canapés, with all proceeds going to the hospice where Joan’s mother was cared for in her final days.

Joan said: "My beloved Mum, Joan Ellis, died of Alzheimer's on January 3, 2018. The one blessing was she spent her final days at Earl Mountbatten Hospice, where the love and care she received was exemplary. It felt like she had been rescued and wrapped in love.

"My mother's death was so different to how it might have been. It was both calm and dignified — just like she had always been — surrounded by those she loved and who loved her.

"I would give anything to have her back but she left us in the best way possible, thanks to Earl Mountbatten Hospice."

Nigel Hartley, chief executive, said: "We’re really grateful to both Donna and Joan for putting on this fundraising event in support of our hospice.

"They are talented performers and have a unique ability to really engage the audience with their anecdotes and stories. It is sure to be a very memorable evening that we are very much looking forward to."

Tickets for the event are available on the evening on the door and no booking is necessary. For more information see www.iwhospice.org