Event spokeswoman Janice Barwell said: "This time they are thrilled to have an internationally-renowned soloist making a guest appearance with them so this is an opportunity not to be missed!

"Alison Stephens is recognised as this country's leading exponent of the classical mandolin. Her highly-successful concert career, as soloist and concerto player, has taken her worldwide and she has played with many of the top orchestras.

"She has made seven CDs so far and has been involved with a number of projects in connection with Captain Corelli's Mandolin, including the film soundtrack. She is Professor of Mandolin at Trinity College."

Brighton's very own mandolin orchestra has been in existence for 14 years, since its foundation by Ian Harris, the leader and musical director of the Orchestra, in 1995. His goal was to revive the tradition of mandolin orchestras, which were hugely popular in the UK up until the 1930s.

Originally playing standard banjo-mandolin-guitar pieces typical of Mandolin Orchestras of the beginning of the century, the orchestra is always expanding its repertoire which now includes everything from tangos, rumbas and ragtime to classical and contemporary works, fully challenging the range of instruments of the mandolin family.

All proceeds from the Lindfield concert are for Macmillan Cancer Support. For tickets (£10 to include a glass of wine) phone 01444 412704 or email janicebarwell@talktalk.net.