A LEATHER jacket worn by Barbara Windsor in EastEnders is top of the lots in a special charity auction to raise money in aid of a young Southampton amputee.

The black jacket with gold lapels is one of more than 100 items of pop, TV, sport and theatre memorabilia donated for the fundraising event.

The auction is being organised by security officer Mark Bailey, 32, who wants to raise money to help four-year-old Hannah Ridout, pictured, of Alderney Close, Lordshill, afford privately-made artificial limbs.

Mark, whose son, Luke, goes to the same school as Hannah, also wants to raise awareness of the Daily Echo's Make A Difference campaign to make the Department of Health release NHS money to families of young amputees who want to go private. Mark, of Lower Brownhill Road, Lordshill, said: "I am really pleased with the response I have had so far but if anyone has got anything else to donate it will be welcome."

Other lots include bass strings from one of Iron Maiden's guitars used on their Virtual 11 CD.

The auction takes place on December 12 at Fairisle Infant School, Fairisle Road, Lordshill, from 1-4pm, with viewing from midday.

Anyone with items to donate can contact Mark on 07932 990050.

If you support our campaign help us Make a Difference by ringing out Southampton city office on 01703 337757 and leaving your name, address and telephone number.

Converted for the new archive on 25 January 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.