New City auction date

Scores of generous Bradford City fans, along with some of the city's most famous sons and daughters, have donated precious items to go under the hammer at the auction.

It had been hoped to hold the auction on Friday, July 2. But, with City facing the possibility of closure unless last- minute deals were secured, the event had to be scrapped on the advice of the club's administrators.

Now the auction will take place at the Valley Parade banqueting suite on Thursday, July 22, at 7.30pm.

And the list of items up for grabs is still growing.

Those already secured include work from Saltaire-based artist Darren Baker, a selection of prints from photographer Ian Beesley, and a table football set belonging to Gareth Gates.

Girls Aloud singer Kimberley Walsh has donated a top she wore in a recent video and signed CDs, and Harry Potter star Matthew Lewis has given exclusive memorabilia from the hit film.

Also up for grabs will be an array of items connected with Bradford City, from a huge collection of football programmes to a framed newspaper report of City's 1911 FA Cup Final triumph.

T&A editor Perry Austin-Clarke said he was delighted the auction would still be able to go ahead.

"When we had to cancel our original auction date we remained determined the event should take place eventually, firstly because people had been so generous in giving items for it and, secondly, because it was generating so much interest among our readers and City fans," he said.

"We even had a call from someone in Germany who was interested in one of the lots.

"I'm sure some of the memorabilia on offer will create fierce competition among bidders.

"We're hoping for an excellent turnout from fans now we've managed to rearrange the event and for another substantial boost for our fund-raising efforts."

Admission to the auction costs a nominal £3, which will go to the appeal.

Anyone who wants to donate an item should call reporter Andrew Hebden on (01274) 705256.