Get ready to give at awards night

2:33pm Tuesday 11th September 2007

The Brighton and Hove Business Awards are just around the corner and those attending are being urged to take their cheque books ready to raise money for charity.

The Argus Appeal, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, helps a wide variety of good causes throughout Sussex.

Highly sought-after lots will be on offer to the highest bidders at the award ceremony at the Hilton Metropole Hotel on Thursday, September 20.

Michael Beard, editor of The Argus, cycled to Paris last month and raised £3,000 for The Argus Appeal. Now he is urging Brighton's businesses to dig deep and do the same.

He said: "We are asking all those attending the BAHBAs to bring their chequebooks, throw caution to the wind and bid big for some massive lots. We are hoping to raise £10,000 among the Brighton business community this year and I can think of no better place to do it than the BAHBAs."

Seven lots will be auctioned on the night by Stewart Gray, of Brighton estate agents Austin Gray.

They are:

• A week's holiday for two to Las Vegas, courtesy of Virgin Holidays.

• A children's party on the Palace Pier with snacks and free rides for 100 people.

• A weekend for two in New York, courtesy of Newmarket Holidays.

• The chance to be the first to see Father Christmas at The Argus Christmas grotto.

• A cricket bat signed by England players Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook, donated by Gray-Nicholls.

• A night for two in the Presidential Suite of the Grand hotel, including afternoon tea and breakfast, donated by the De Vere Grand, Brighton.

• A chance to be mascot for the day at a Brighton and Hove Albion match.

All funds raised are used to support causes which "make a difference". Anyone can apply to The Argus Appeal for funding, from individuals needing specialist equipment to organisations seeking help with a particular project.

For more information, go to www.theargus.co.uk/argusappeal