A BATCH of signed sporting items will be up for grabs at a special event for the Help the Heroes charity.

Former serviceman Colin Jackson has collected the memorabilia for a charity ball he has organised for the cause on July 30.

Ex-marine Ben McBeen, who lost an arm and a leg while serving in Afghanistan and has since gone on to run the London Marathon, will be a special guest speaker at the event, which is being held at the Legends Lounge at the County Ground.

There will be a silent auction on the night when people can bid on a wide range of sporting goods including a signed Jonny Wilkinson rugby ball, footballer John Terry’s England shirt and Ryder Cup quiet boards signed by Lee Westwood.

Colin, who served in the forces for eight years, has been raising money for the charity since he left. He said: “Being in the forces, it is a charity that is very close to my heart.

“I think the evening is going to be a great success and it is a must for anyone who loves sport. I have worked hard to get the prizes and there are some great items for people to bid on.”

As well as the raffle and auction, guests will be treated to a three-course meal and live music from the band The Fourth Element.

People unable to attend can still bid on any of the auction items.

Tickets for the evening, which runs between 6.30pm and midnight, cost £35 and tables of 10 are available.

For more information and how to get tickets which are on sale now visit www.helpforheroescharityball.co.uk.