BEN AFFLECK - AFFLECK TO PLAY POKER FOR KIDS' CHARITY

Hollywood hunk BEN AFFLECK has decided to use his poker skills to raise cash for a good cause, after a little persuasion from TV star ELLEN DeGENERES.

The actor - a noted fan of the card game - appeared on DeGeneres' hit American chat show yesterday (24MAR04) to promote his upcoming movie JERSEY GIRL, when the comedienne publicly asked him to help her out.

She explained, "I'm gonna out you on the spot here because I know you like to play poker and I'm learning how to play poker. We're having a big event to raise money for PEACE GAMES, this organisation I'm very involved with... Will you please do it?"

Big hearted Affleck quickly responded he'll race back from his native Boston, Massachusetts, to Los Angeles for the 16 April (04) event, which will aids in creating a safe environment for children in their classrooms and in their communities.