SPECIAL needs children and teenagers in West Devon are in line to get a boost — thanks to the generosity of some of the world's top sports stars.
The likes of Brazilian football legend Pele, England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles, and current Liverpool players Steve Gerrard and Fernando Torres are among those who have contributed to the auction to raise money for the Tavistock Youth Café Plus.
The Son-Rise Cup auction will be held in the Red and Black Club at Tavistock Football Club on Saturday, May 16, starting at 6.45pm. The event is part of the Tavistock AFC charity football fun day, which includes the Son-Rise Cup.
Under the hammer is a framed photograph cartoon personally signed by Nobby Stiles and another framed photo by his World Cup team-mate Geoff Hurst; signed shirts by Gerrard, Torres and Chelsea and England's Frank Lampard; a framed and hand-signed photo with original signature of three times World Cup winner Pele and a framed copy of a photo and signature of former Manchester United manager Sir Matt Busby.
Allen Lewis, who is organising the event, said to get such a collection together took a lot of time and effort but it will not have been in vain.
He said: 'I just want to say, a big, big thank you to all those sports people who have taken the time to sign these items for us to help such a great cause!'
Allen is particularly pleased that the auction will include a signed/framed print of recent Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Kauto Star with jockey Ruby Walsh and trainer Paul Nicholls, which was taken especially for the auction. Profits from this item will go to the Bob Champion Cancer Trust.
The items can be seen on display in the shop window of Active Co in Market Street, Tavistock — the sports shop is sponsoring the medals for the Son-Rise Cup event.
Bids for the auction items may be made to Francis Jasper of the Union Inn, Tavistock, on 01822 613115.
There is also a plea for more prizes from individuals or companies to be donated for prizes and a tombola. Please take prizes to Morrisons Service Station.