McCartney is to be host of virtual dinner

NEW YORK, June 4 (UPI) -- British rock icon Paul McCartney has agreed to be host of a virtual dinner party to raise money for Adopt-A-Minefield, the charity said.

As part of The Night of a Thousand Dinners event, individuals, corporations and communities are encouraged to raise funds for landmine removal and survivor assistance by holding dinners and, in lieu of flowers or wine, asking guests to donate to Adopt-A-Minefield.

Anyone who registers as a guest for McCartney's virtual dinner party at www.paulmccartney.com Thursday, World Environment Day, and donates a minimum of $25 to Adopt-A-Minefield will get a one-time-only exclusive download of a previously unreleased track called "Lifelong Passion (Sail Away)" as well as some special vegetarian recipes from celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

"The Night of a Thousand Dinners is not only a great way to raise money for a just cause, it's also a good way for friends and families to have fun together," McCartney said in a statement.

"It should be a priority to clear arable land of landmines so that communities can once again use their land to grow their own food. Some music, some fantastic recipes from Jamie and hopefully, with your help, we'll be able to raise the much needed funds for the cause."