A CHARITY auction in Beckenham opened by actor Eric Richard raised nearly £550 for a New York fund for firefighters.

Mr Richard, who became famous playing Sergeant Bob Cryer in The Bill, launched the event at Bromley Road Infant School, in Bromley Road, to raise money for families who have lost loved ones working for the city's fire service, particularly in the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Organisers Melanie Hyder, 34, of Wickham Road, and fellow parent at the school, Paula Kerridge, 28, of Abbey Park, collected donations from Beckenham shops and businesses for the auction.

Anyone wishing to make a donation should call 020 8650 0003.

October 24, 2001 10:55