Mohammed Ali donates charity auction lot

Boxing fans in Norfolk will be given a once-in-a-lifetime chance to lay their hands on exclusive memorabilia from the world's greatest heavyweight champion this month.

Mohammed Ali, who has been living with Parkinson’s for many years, has donated a personal "goody bag" for auction at one of a series of parties being held nationwide to raise awareness of the debilitating disease. The package, which includes a signed photo, a rare baseball cap and a letter of authenticity personally written by his assistant, also has an information pack available only in the USA about Ali's new centre, which is opening in November.

The boxing legend was one of many to donate items or services for auction at the Party for Parkinson's, which is being held at the World's End pub in Mulbarton on Friday 15 July. A VIP package to Mercy nightclub and signed items from Tottenham, West Ham, Liverpool and Newcastle football clubs are also among the lots up for grabs to the highest bidder.

Trevor Mills, ambassador for the Parkinson's Disease Society and the organiser of the event, said:

"It is true that Parkinson's is a terrible disease, which can also affect young people, but stories about it can be full of doom and gloom. This is some people’s experience, but mine has been different and I want to emphasise some of the positive ways it has changed my life.

"The idea behind Party for Parkinson's is to raise awareness as well as funds. I want to let people know about the Parkinson’s Disease Society so they can go to them for support if they want to.

"The Parties will be happening all over the country, including a massive one in London in October, but this one in Mulbarton is one of the first! There will be celebrities like Micky Quinn and Alan Brazil there, plus a wide variety of lots to bid for. And as DJ for the event, I can also guarantee that it will be a great night of music and dancing!"

Trevor, 44, was diagnosed with Parkinson's himself six years ago, and was no longer able to work as a postman. He also had to give up the band for which he'd been a drummer for 25 years. But his love of music inspired him to follow a new career, and with the help of a grant from South Norfolk Council's regeneration team, he was able to train to become a professional DJ. He will also be DJ-ing the Party in London in October.

The Party for Parkinson's will be held in the garden of the World's End pub in Mulbarton on Friday 15 July. Start at 7pm, with auction from 9pm. No tickets required, just turn up - with your bidding skills and a wallet!

For further information on the Parkinson’s Disease Society please telephone 020 7931 8080 or visit their website.

Web links

• Parkinsons Disease Society

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