A group embracing five anti-drugs groups is set to get a massive cash boost from a star-studded golf tournament, it was revealed yesterday.

Event organiser Samuel L. Jackson announced yesterday that the Council Partners Charitable Trust will be the Bermuda beneficiary of proceeds from the May golfing extravaganza, which will also feature golf-mad former 007 Sean Connery.

The weekend programme will also include a glittering Las Vegas-style black tie ball, a comedy evening organised with Planet Hollywood and a charity auction.

Mr. Jackson said in a telegram to the Council Partners: "It is true that I have a passion for golf but it is equally true that I have a passion to make a difference whenever and wherever I can.

"The Council Partners Charitable Trust is a perfect complement to the Catalog for Giving, the other beneficiary of this fund-raising event.'' Mr. Jackson added: "The support from the Bermuda people and business for this event has been overwhelming.

"I look forward to hosting my friends on the Island of Bermuda in May next year -- thank you for your support.'' The Catalog for Giving is a US-based organisation made up of groups providing direct services to disadvantaged youngsters.

Already, almost $1 million has been raised in sponsorship from Bermudian and international business, with ACE Insurance being the title sponsor of the event and The Bank of Butterfield acting as one of the associate sponsors.

Tom Godber, boss of Canadian Connection which will supervise the event, broke the news at a Hamilton Princess lunch for the advisory panel of the Trust.

Mr. Godber said: "It's well-known that Mr. Jackson supports charities involved in alcohol and drug abuse issues.

"When he heard of the Council Partners Charitable Trust, the organisation was Mr. Jackson's first choice as the charity in Bermuda which would be the beneficiary of funds from this tournament.'' He added: "This is something very exciting and something which shows the people in Bermuda that when the business community gets together with the charitable community, they can create an event which has something for everyone.'' Mr. Godber read out a telegram from Mr. Jackson announcing the donation at yesterday's lunch.

The telegram stressed that the charity fund-raising component of the tournament was vitally important to the success of the event.

The Samuel L. Jackson Celebrity Golf Classic will be held between May 9 and 11 next year and is expected to attract a host of stars.

Mr. Godber added that he was delighted that the Ministry of Tourism had thrown its weight behind the marketing of the event.

Tourism Minister David Dodwell said: "We are delighted to be assisting in this opportunity -- it's a wonderful opportunity not only for the people of Bermuda, but for the tourism industry by bringing visitors and celebrities here -- which we all know is important for our image.

"The example of the public and private sector working together speaks well for tourism and we look forward to a wonderful, successful event next year.'' GOLF GLF FUND RAISER FNR