Signed Blackpool FC shirt up for grabs in online bid to raise money for Trinity Hospice

James King, 27, is selling his signed Blackpool shirt on eBay for the hospice, which cared for his grandmother, Connie Rickarby, before she died of breast cancer in May 2016.

He said: "My nan was cared for by Trinity Hospice and we used yo regularly go and visit, and they were incredible in terms of the care they provided. She came from Blackpool Victoria Hospital where she had been in a room with lots of other people, and they found her her own room overlooking the garden. They were incredible from start to finish.

"Every year we pull together as a family and donate, but when the shirt came through I thought it was a perfect opportunity to raise some money.

"A lot of places that rely on donations from the public are struggling at the moment because people have been hit financially by coronavirus, and charity shops have not been open for months."

James, who is from Cleveleys and now lives in Manchester, won the Blackpool FC shirt with Sky Bet, a British-based gambling company.

He originally won a match day pass and a tour of the stadium behind the scenes, but this was cancelled due to the coronavirus lockdown.

"My goal was to raise at least £50, but bidding has already gone up to £85 - so now to break £100 would be great," James said.

"I think everyone who lives in the Blackpool area has something nice to say about Trinity Hospice. They are unbelievably selfless and kind people who give up their own time to support people at the end of their lives. They make it a celebration of someone's life. It really brings out the best in people."

Sophie Burluraux, of Trinity Hospice, said: "We’re so unbelievably grateful to James for auctioning off the merchandise he won and choosing to support Trinity. Covid-19 has had a huge impact on hospice fund-raising, so support like James’ is absolutely vital right now."

People can bid on the football shirt, which is signed by last season's team, online at www.ebay.co.uk/itm/383655690418

Bidding closes on Monday at 9pm.