A LEGEND of the stage and screen hosted a special event at a theatre in Sonning last weekend.

Dame Judi Dench appeared at The Mill at Sonning on Sunday, April 22 for an intimate 'Audience with...' event, where she was interviewed by actor Simon Williams about her life, loves and her glittering theatre and film career.

The event was held in aid of the Sonning Eye & Dunsden Village Hall's refurbishment appeal, raising £20,000 for the fund in the process.

Dame Judi's appearance came about following a conversation between The Mill's artistic director Sally Hughes and David Woodward from the Sonning Eye & Dunsden charity. Sally mentioned the appeal to Finty William's, Dame Judi's daughter, who is currently starring in Move Over, Mrs Markham at The Mill., who suggested her mother get involved.

During the event, mother and daughter both took to the stage for a performance of Send in the Clowns, accompanied by one of the theatre's musical directors, Toby Cruze.

Sally said: "It was an extraordinary and unique moment in theatre. Simon Williams was the consummate host and Dame Judi was the star that she is, proven by the fact that at the end of her rendition of 'Send In The Clowns' the audience all rose in unison. It was an amazing moment, just extraordinary.

"The Mill is honoured to have had Dame Judi Dench appear and I am so delighted that we were able to raise the £20,000 that the village needed."