The mum of World Cup winning cricket hero Jos Buttler, who grew up in Wedmore, has said that his charity auction of a signed shirt is encouraging others to donate to the cause.

Patricia Buttler has given some background behind the auction of the shirt Jos wore to win the World Cup, which has been signed by the team, and she said that it has meant other people have backed the charity it is raising money for.

She said: "Jos and his wife Louise wanted to highlight how desperate hospitals are for specialist equipment to help in the fight against this terrible disease that has crippled the world in such a short space of time and how they are crying out for help.

"An eye-catching event like the shirt auction has also encouraged others to pledge small donations to the same cause.

"In cricket terms, the World Cup shirt is probably the most valuable piece of memorabilia from Jos's career but he is prepared to part with it to try to contribute to the effort of defeating Covid-19.

"He has been in quite a privileged position as an international cricketer but realises that in the face of the virus we are all in the same boat and we must all help where we can. I hope the shirt raises enough money to make a difference."

The auction of the signed shirt is raising money for the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals Charity, with all of the proceeds going directly to it.

The auction on online site ebay finishes tomorrow (April 7) but bidding currently stands at almost £66,000 for the signed shirt.