A Bradford-based charity which funds research into brain tumours and supports patients and their families has announced that former England cricketer Allan Lamb has accepted an invitation to join Sir Ian Botham as a patron.

Andrea's Gift which was set up in 2003, is named after mum-of-two Andrea Key, of Eccleshill, who died aged 42, eight months after being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour.

Carol Robertson, spokesman for Andrea's Gift, said: "We are thrilled that Allan Lamb is joining our strong team of patrons. We owe it to everyone affected by this wretched disease to ensure that we obtain the greatest awareness and having such high profile supporters like Allan can only help that process."

The charity will celebrate its fifth anniversary in February 2008 and during that time, with the help of the people of Bradford, it has raised almost £450,000.

Its support programme offers brain tumour patients, both children and adults, and carers and those who are bereaved, the opportunity to come together and share experiences.