John Terry's signed World Cup shirt part of Crookham Common fundraiser
Organisers are hoping for lots of support at the evening of live music and a hog roast - with the former England captain's signed shirt, worn during the 2010 World Cup series in South Africa, to go to the highest bidder.
The shirt was donated by Eric Reid, an electrician, for the fundraiser in aid of Tim Enburey, aged 40, an assistant manager for Robert Dyas, in Basingstoke, who was left with only a few rescued photos of his mother, after fire ripped through his uninsured mobile home in Crookham Common Caravan Park, together with Tilly his cat, rescued from the blaze by firefighters.
“I’m devastated as it was my home - I bought it with my mum’s money when she died,” he said, adding he would be sure to insure it in future, if it could possibly be restored.
He was living in temporary accommodation provided by pub landlady, neighbour Julie Cooper, owner of Crookham Village Stores and the Traveller's Friend pub, and who started a collection at the pub and shop, along with an appeal to help him.
Mrs Cooper also organised tonight's fundraiser, after local band The Groove Thing, offered their services free of charge for the cause, comprising musicians from Newbury, Thatcham, Theale and Tilehurst.
The night will also be supported by family butchers, Wyatts, of Tadley, who have donated hog roasting machinery and a pig to spit roast.
The evening kicks off at 7pm at the Traveller's Friend pub, in Crookham Common, RG 19 8EA, telephone 0118 9713156. Suggested voluntary door admission of £1.50 per person.