David and Allison Hartley, parents of Joshua, Nathan, Daniel and Luke, are organising their first major fundraiser for the newly-formed XLP Research Trust.

The charity was recently launched to fund research into XLP, the rare condition that affects the four Hartley boys, in anticipation of finding a genetic cure in the future.

An Auction of Promises will be held at the Crosfield Hall, Romsey, on November 12, from 7.30pm.

Following a ploughman's platter, drinks and musical entertainment, the auction will be conducted by local auctioneer Michael Baker.

A large number of promises (generously provided by local businesses and individuals) are up for grabs.

Among the lots going under the hammer are: beauty treatments, a paintballing day, meals out, theatre tickets, car valetting and the use of a ski apartment in the Alps and a cottage in Cornwall

Tickets cost £7.50 each and are now on sale from Volumes Bookshop in Bell Street (01794 516404).

A detailed catalogue will be available from Volumes for perusal in advance at the beginning of November.

Sealed bids will be accepted for those unable to attend on the night.

For more information or to offer a promise for auction, email elspeth@xlpresearchtrust.org

Nathan Hartley is currently in Great Ormond Street, London; he is the third son to undergo this life-saving bone-marrow transplant. For more details about Nathan and the Hartley family's story please go to www.teamhartley.co.uk.

For more information about the XLP Research Trust, log onto www.xlpresearchtrust.org