SPORTS and soap fans have entered a bidding war after the launch of an auction website which will benefit charities in Comet country.

Lunch with EastEnders stars and former Liverpool footballer Robbie Fowler are among the one-off prizes up for grabs on www.communitybidder.co.uk – set up on Saturday to help charities raise as much money as possible.

The first online auction runs until March 16 and is expected to generate thousands of pounds for Cancer Hair Care, a Stevenage-based charity which supports cancer patients who have suffered hair loss.

Hartsfield JMI School in Baldock also stands to benefit from the auction, from which all of the money raised will go to charity.

“We are so thrilled to see the launch of this fantastic community fundraising project with this wonderful auction,” said Jasmin Gupta, founder of Cancer Hair Care.

“As one of the organisations benefitting this will help us with much needed funds to expand our children’s services and keep our Cancer Hair Care Lister Hospital clinic running.

“Hair loss can be so devastating and really knock people’s confidence when they are already at an all time low. Our free cancer service helps children and adults to have expert advice, services and free specialist items such as hats for children with hair loss.”

The Knebworth resident set up the charity in 2005 after working as a hairdresser, with Alezcia Minnis one of the many people to benefit since.

Aleczia, who lives in Stevenage, had her hair cut off by Jasmin, who involved Alezcia’s children in the process.

She said: “Cancer Hair Care gave me support, advice and a selection of free hats and scarves. They made what could have been such a horrible experience into something meaningful. I really hope that people will support the auction – it means so much to me to know I am supported through my cancer treatment.”

Entrepreneur Mark McVeigh, who co-founded the website, said: “Unlike many other online auctions, 100 per cent of all proceeds generated go directly to the charity and good causes nominated. The concept and idea is to make this technology widely available for further charities and good causes in the future.”

To view the 28 prizes being auctioned visit www.communitybidder.co.uk

To find out more about Cancer Hair Care call 01438 311322 or log on to www.cancerhaircare.co.uk