Gest announces Jackson charity auction

David Gest has put rare Michael Jackson memorabilia up for auction in order to raise money for charity.

The I'm A Celebrity… star, who was a close friend of the music icon, is releasing 18 collectors' items including a signed picture of Jackson wearing a veil which has never been seen before.

Signed CDs, concert programmes, posters and other photos also feature in the collection.

Gest is hoping to raise funds for Liverpool Unites, which helps underprivileged young people in Merseyside, as well as the Variety Club children's charity.

Speaking to the Liverpool Daily Post, he commented: "I am delighted to donate this rare Michael Jackson memorabilia from my personal collection to two very worthwhile charities, Liverpool Unites and the Variety Club children's charity, which I strongly support.

"Liverpool has become a second home to me and the affection and warmth of the people of Liverpool and its surrounding areas has made me want to do something special for the children in need on Merseyside and my best friend Michael Jackson would have agreed.

"If I can even put a smile on one child's face, then I am a better man today than I was yesterday. I hope people will all join in and bid for these one-of-a-kind items that will help raise the much needed funds these charities so richly deserve."

Fans can bid for the items now on the Liverpool Unites website. The auction closes at midnight on October 19.