A HAMPSHIRE charity battling to find a cure for leukaemia used its 15th birthday to announce a new fundraising drive and celebrity ambassadors.

More than 100 people attended Southampton based Leukaemia Busters' anniversary celebration at the Rose Bowl, West End, yesterday.

Former England cricket captain David Gower and his wife Thorunn were named as the charity's new patrons, following a ten-year stint by Gary and Michelle Lineker.

Meanwhile, former Portsmouth FC boss Harry Redknapp and his wife Sandra will take on the role of fundraising presidents, previously held by the Gowers.

Newly created ambassador roles for the charity were announced for Bruce Parker, Sally Taylor, Lawrie McMenemy and Trevor Mitchell.

Dr David Flavell, the charity's honorary scientific director, said: "There are great challenges ahead to ensure that the fruits of our research are used for the benefit of patients."