Actor Richard Gere helped raise $220,000 (£137,000) at a charity auction in New York City on Tuesday night (16Apr13) by offering to show off his cookery skills to help a good cause.

The Pretty Woman star was among the guests at City Harvest's Evening of Practical Magic gala at Cipriani 42nd Street in Manhattan when celebrity chef Eric Ripert offered up a special prize to raise money.

Ripert told guests he would come to the auction winner's home and cook a gourmet meal for 20 people, but when bidding stalled, Gere stepped in and offered to act as his sous chef. The move helped pull in a $220,000 (£137,000) bid for the prize, according to the New York Times.

Gere also offered up a stay in his luxury hotel, the Bedford Post Inn in Bedford, New York, which sold for $19,000 (£11,800).

City Harvest helps feed New Yorkers who are struggling to cover the cost of meals.