MUSIC fans have got the chance to get their hands on signed memorabilia from some of the region’s biggest and best artists in a special charity auction this Friday.

With items such as signed lyrics from Bryan Ferry (Avalon), Jimmy Nail (Big River), Paul Smith (By the Monument) and Mike Tickell, as well as the lyrics to Brothers in Arms by Mark Knopfler, the charity auction will take place between 6.45pm and 9.30pm, at Newcastle University’s King’s Hall in the historic Armstrong Building.

The auction is just one element of a special musical event, called Avison to Tickell: Musicians as Philanthropists for the North East, as part the GeNErosity Festival.

Kathryn Tickell, who is one of the hosts for the evening, said: “We are planning a fantastic evening of music and song to share the strength of our North East culture, something I am hugely passionate about.”

All proceeds from the event will go into the Young Musicians Fund at the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, to help support budding artists and home-grown talent across the region.

Tickets cost £40 per person. People wishing to buy tickets are asked to email et@communityfoundation.org.uk.