Becks appeal: Superstar David Beckham backs Shrewsbury mayor's charity fundraiser
He is one of the biggest superstars in the world who lends his name to multinational events - but that hasn't prevented David Beckham doing his bit for a charity ball being held in Shrewsbury.
Councillor Jane Mackenzie's annual charity ball takes place on Saturday and has live music from the Chicago Swing Catz jazz band, a magician and a disco running until late.
She has already launched an online auction, open to everyone all, where lots include a bound copy of 24 issues of The Walking Dead with an original drawing by Shrewsbury artist Charlie Adlard; two tickets to Centre Court Wimbledon; a glamping weekend donated by Salop Leisure; a luxury overnight Land Rover and Jaguar experience; and a chance to have lunch with Paul Hurst and the players at STFC players and a Manchester United shirt.
But now the David Beckham Foundation has agreed that the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and England legend will not only pledge a signed Manchester United shirt, but will do something exceptional.
The 42-year-old has agreed to personalise what he writes on his shirt to whoever wins it.
Councillor Mackenzie, mayor of Shrewsbury, said: "This is extremely rare, he does not usually do this.
"I’ve been urged to put a reserve of at least £1,000 on it. If the right person gets to hear about it, it could sell for several thousand pounds."
Details of all the auction items can be found at jumblebee.co.uk/auction/detail/auction_id/2256
Jeremy Lamond, auctioneer director at Halls, will be the Master of Ceremonies and will deliver the live auction on the night.
Councillor Mackenzie is working with Shropshire Recovery Partnership to support people recovering from substance misuse in Shrewsbury and is setting up a charitable trust to continue this work after her Mayoral year has ended.
All money raised at the event, which is being held at Shrewsbury Town Football Club will go towards the trust.
Another famous face will also be talking at the event. Controversial comic Russell Brand will speak via live video link about how Chip Somers, the ball's guest speaker, saved his life.
