Absolutely Fabulous actress Julia Sawalha was among guests at a fundraising event supporting Merton Amnesty's campaign against death by stoning in Nigeria.

The actress attended a special screening of award-winning film The Circle at the Curzon Soho Cinema.

More than £500 was raised and will go towards funding the defence of women like Amina Lawal, who was sentenced to death for having a child outside marriage.

Amina's appeal was due to be heard this month, but it has been postponed until August 5.

July 18, 2002 11:30