A keyboard signed by a celebrity choirmaster is up for an online auction.

Raise - the charity for West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust – has set up an eBay account to in a bid to boost its income.

And its first item that will be sold is a keyboard signed by Gareth Malone, who appeared on BBC2 on Christmas Eve performing at Watford General Hospital.

The music-maker found time in the middle of rehearsing a choir, comprised of hospital staff and patients, to sign the keyboard and leave an inspirational message on it.

The Casio LK-136, which is not the keyboard used in the televised Gareth Malone’s Christmas Concert, will now be sold to the highest bidder.

Charity Director Sofia Sheikh said: “Raising money can be very competitive and we need to ensure we are making it as easy as possible to give your money to us! That’s why we are so pleased to be adding eBay to Just Giving and PayPal as online ways of donating.

“There will always be a place for traditional fundraising. Everyone loves a cake sale and we are thrilled when people volunteer to hold events or take part in sponsored runs and other challenges.

“For people or companies who want to support us but can’t offer money, providing high value items for auction or services such as make-overs or promoting events in the work place is a great way to give. I hope that the keyboard is the first of many items that help Raise continue its great work in support of the patients and staff of West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust.”

The deadline for the auction is January 21, 2020. Anyone can place a bid here 

Anyone who would like to auction something can call 01923 436177 or email office@raisewestherts.org.uk.