PRESS RELEASE: A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR ENGLISH CRICKET FANS

Two further 'lots' to be auctioned include an original framed watercolour, again by David Stallard, of Ian Botham (signed by the same, pictured opposite) and a signed copy of HRH Prince Charles' book, 'Watercolours'. All three lots are being auctioned to raise money for the Cheltenham Mayor's Charity, to provide funds for:

Cheltenham Senior Citizens' Welfare Committee

The Breast Care Fund

The Young Arts Centre

This Internet Auction, hosted by Southern Newspapers Plc (West Region) New Media Department, is the final fund raiser for the outgoing Mayor of Cheltenham, Les Godwin, who, to date, has raised in excess of #35,000 for his nominated Charities.

Taking part in this auction couldn't be simpler. To bid, you will require a Bidder's Number that can be obtained either by calling 0891 444 354 (all calls are charged at 50p/min at all times and will last approximately 3.5 minutes. The Mayor's Charity will receive 9 pence per minute, minimum, per call) or, on-line, by logging on to the auction site URL: www.glos-gateway.co.uk/mayorscharity

As well as a Bidder's Number you will also require your own personal password. Bids will only be accepted through the form to be found on the above URL on the 3rd and 4th of September. There is a registration fee of #5.00 to obtain a Bidder's Number. This is charged to your credit card account, details of which must be given at time of registration.

Southern Newspapers Plc (West Region) New Media Manager, Paul Henderson, comments: ``We are very pleased to utilise our experience in the field of electronic publishing to facilitate an event such as this. We would hope that the auction will benefit the Mayor's Charity Fund, to bring the total raised during the past twelve months to in excess of #40,000.''

Timetable of Events

Site goes on-line - Monday 10th August

Registration facility via telephone line & web site opens Monday 17th August

Registration closes by 'phone 9am, by web site 5pm - Wednesday 2nd September

Auction commences - Thursday 3rd September 9am

Final bid accepted - Friday 4th September 7pm

For further information, contact either Paul Henderson at Southern Newspapers Plc on 01453 540227 or Tim Harman at the Cheltenham Mayor's Office on 01242 264130.

Contributed by The Management (help@cricinfo.com)