THE charity that saves lives at sea is appealing to the people of Glasgow to support the first ever RNLI fundraising ball to be held in the city.

A host of celebrities have shown their support by donating items for an auction which will run at the ball, which is being held in the Hilton Hotel, on Friday, September 12.

Lynsey Anderson, RNLI fundraising manager, said: "We have had fantastic support from a long list of celebrities, who have donated an amazing range of items for the auction.

"We decided to try this event in Glasgow because there are lots of sailors around the Clyde. The RNLI is there for them 24/7, in times of need, so it would be fantastic if they and others could support this fundraiser and help spread the word."

Moira Kerr, secretary of Oban RNLI Fundraising Committee, who has written to famous faces asking for their support for the auction, said: "We have a Jack Vettriano limited edition signed print of Dance Me To The End Of Love, worth £775, a Jolomo limited edition print worth £400 to £500.

"The Duke of Argyll has donated a bottle of 38-year-old whisky worth £570, Lorraine Kelly has given us a gorgeous Catwalk Diva purple dress and a pair of shoes she wore on TV.

"Dame Helen Mirren has written in gold ink Shakespeare's words from The Tempest, that she wowed the audience with in her speech when she won her Bafta Fellowship Award earlier this year. This is a unique keepsake.

"And racing driver Susie Wolff has sent us her silver racing suit, racing shoes, two signed race shirts and a miniature helmet. Pre-auction bids are coming in fast for Susie's suit."

A table of 10 costs £550 and tickets are also available individually.

They include a champagne reception, three-course dinner with wine and entertainment.

To buy tickets telephone Lynsey Anderson on 07557 191865 and to enquire about auction items, or to make a pre-auction bid for any item, e-mail Moira Kerr on moira.kerr3@btinternet.com