They say that one in four of us knows someone who sadly suffers with the illness MS.

On Saturday, April 12, at the Rose Tavern, ITISC, you have the chance to support the MS Society as they hold a big raffle and auction ending with a karaoke

The driving force and inspiration behind this event is that the president of our Ipswich Town supporters club, ex-Ipswich Town and England footballer Kevin Beattie, wants to raise money for the society as a thank-you for the help he receives, as his wife sadly suffers from the illness.

The MS Society receives no Government funding and relies 100 per cent on the generosity of individuals and organisations such as you.

We do, of course, appreciate that you all get many requests from various charities – but your help and generosity would be very much appreciated, helping us to make a difference to the 85,000 people living with MS in the UK.

Multiple Sclerosis is the most common disabling neurological disorder affecting young adults.

Many people have heard of MS, but many more don't understand the true reality of the condition.

MS is an unpredictable and often devastating disease that may eventually rob people of significant physical and mental abilities, their livelihoods and independence.

The evening should be well attended as we welcome Kevin Beattie as their guest of honour.

Prizes up for auction are just amazing: a bedroom suite, RRP £5,000, tea at the Ritz, champagne punt trip worth £200, clothing from one of the Coronation Street stars, a signed Barcelona shirt, a large signed framed record/poster by Editors, a large Sir Cliff Richard framed signed picture, a signed Searchers DVD, a Frank Skinner signed shirt, and various other signed items from top personalities in TV, music and sport, plus a special donation from Carol Vorderman – so hopefully there is something for everyone.

In the raffle there are also some superb prizes such as a camera of your choice up to £100, a watch, cufflinks, jewellery, a hamper, a Filofax, bedding, tickets for Greyhound racing at Walthamstow and Wimbledon, teddies, a Fulton birdcage umbrella (as used by the Queen), a Radio 5 Live sweatshirt t-shirt and bag, games, a rug, various vouchers, a child's Moo cuckoo clock, books, and even unusual prizes such as a painting-by-numbers kit with the picture being your choice, plus loads more prizes, along with the usual wine, beer and chocs.

Then to finish the night off, you can try your hand at being the next X Factor winner on the karaoke.

Please come along and support this event and make a difference.

MALCOLM THOMPSON,

PO box 150,

Haverhill, CB9 7QB.

The University of Leicester is celebrating the 50th anniversary of receiving its Royal Charter and becoming an independent university.