A GIFT of 'Titanic' proportions has kindly been donated for a charity auction at Shebbear College later this year.

Marine artist Rodney Charman has donated a print of his oil painting 'RMS Titanic leaving the White Star Dock, Southampton, 10th April 1912' for a charity auction at the college in September.

As the title suggests, the print depicts the Titanic setting sail from Southampton docks as she began her infamous maiden voyage across the Atlantic, striking an iceberg and sinking on April 14 1912.

The rare print has been signed by Millvina Dean, the ship's youngest passenger and the last survivor of the Titanic disaster before her death in 2009. It is also signed and numbered by the artist.

The auction is taking place at the college's Michaelmas Ball on Saturday September 29. The black tie event promises a memorable evening, with a champagne bar, three course gourmet dinner, live music, prize draw and the auction.

The ball and auction is being organised by the Old Shebbearians' Association and the Friends of Shebbear College. Funds raised from the ball will be split between the two organisations to benefit students at the college.

Money raised by the prize draw will support 'Farms for City Children', the charity set up by author Michael Morpurgo.

For more information about the Michaelmas Ball please visit http://www.michaelmasball.co.uk">www.michaelmasball.co.uk or contact Shebbear College on 01409 282000.