It came on the eve of Tony Blair's arrival in Texas for talks with US President George W Bush.

Cherie Blair: information the key

Mrs Bush, a supporter of the foundation, said she was delighted to have this transatlantic support to raise cash and awareness.

And Mrs Blair, a patron of Breast Cancer Care, said she knew the importance of information in helping people cope with the disease.

She added: "We recognise the growing global impact of breast cancer, the shared challenges to countries worldwide, and the value of co-ordinated advocacy in the battle against this disease."

Proceeds were shared between the foundation and its sister organisation, Breast Cancer Care.

Laura Bush: raising cash

The theme for the evening, United in a Promise, was aimed at underlining how the disease defied geographic boundaries.

Mrs Bush said: "Many of us know and love someone who has had breast cancer and it is very important we work together to find a cure."

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer among women in the United States and the UK.

It affects approximately one in nine women in both countries.

Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer Burt Bacharach also performed at the event.