Whitney wows charity ball audience

Whitney Houston stole the show and got paid handsomely for doing so at the star-studded Legends Ball in London.

Houston sang for a reported six-figure fee at the glamourous event to raise money for Caudwell Children, which helps children with disabilities.

Mickey Rooney, Jane Russell, Buzz Aldrin and Joan Collins were among the icons in attendence.

But all eyes were on Houston, who is said to be making a comeback with an album set to be released around Christmas.

After years of making headlines with reports of drug abuse and a tumultuous relationship with former husband Bobby Brown, her celebrity fans rooted for her return to form.

"She's got an incredible catalogue of songs and she's a real talent, she's got a great voice, what a voice. She's a real talent, you can't knock her on it," said Ronan Keating of Boyzone

Heidi Range of the Sugababes said: "Me and the girls agree that she's one of the reasons every girl wants to be a singer. We got close to her before at Fashion Rocks and we were all just staring so I can't wait to see her perform."

When asked how he got Houston to perform, John Caudwell, the founder of the charity said: "With great effort and great dedication.

"It's always difficult getting a headline act. Last year we had Tina Turner, this year we had Whitney Houston, next year we have the legendary Elton John. We managed to get the right stars and of course that always helps packs the tent full of people who are wealthy and we can raise an awful lot of money for these children."

The Caudwell Children's annual charity ball brings together stars from stage, screen and sport to help raise funds for children with special needs. In 2007, the charity donated £2.2 million to help children who were sick or disabled.

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