HAMPSHIRE'S sailing superstars have quite literally donated the jackets off their backs to raise money for a beach clean campaign.

Round-the-world racers Mike Golding, Dee Caffari and Robin Knox Johnston are among a host of stars who have handed over sailing memorabilia to The Green Blue's Sailing Superstars auction.

Golding, from Warsash, near Southampton, made a guest appearance at the Southampton Boat Show yesterday to donate his trademark jacket, which protected him from the elements on his eco-friendly yacht Ecover during the Velux 5 Oceans Race.

Also up for grabs in the auction are Dee Caffari's ocean jacket, which she wore on her record-breaking solo circumnavigation, as well as Robin Knox Johnston's shirt, worn onboard his Open 60 yacht Saga Insurance.

A pair of red socks belonging to late yachting legend Sir Peter Blake, as well as a shirt worn during one of his America's Cup campaigns, were also donated by his widow Pippa.

The auction, which runs for the duration of the boat show, marks the launch of The Green Blue's new website promoting an eco-friendly approach to yachting.

Green Blue project manager Sarah Black said: "Small changes can make a real difference to the environment.

"By cutting emissions, sharing transport, swapping kit no longer needed or thinking of ways to reuse those items you would normally throw away, we can all make a difference.

"We are really excited about the Sailing Superstars auction and are asking people to dig deep and bid big to support the campaign."

Every penny raised by the auction will go to set up a grant program for beach cleaning.

Visitors to the show can place their bids for the super star auction online at www.greenblue.org.uk.