FOOTBALLING legend Peter Shilton is backing a bid to improve health and raise funds for charity.

The former England goalkeeper is supporting his fiancee Steph Haywood who is an ambassador for St Helena Hospice.

Ms Haywood is organising a senior golf tournament to raise money for the hospice which cares for people with life limiting illnesses.

So far, about five clubs have signed up but she is hoping more will do so.

And on some days, a raffle will be held in which the winners will get either Steph or Peter on their team.

Steph, who lives in West Mersea, said: "Pete is a good player and he will be coming along whenever his commitments allow.

"Whoever gets me will be getting the short straw. I am a keen golfer but not that good."

Steph is hoping groups could get together to organise their own tournaments.

Their results will be in a special league table and the winning team will be announced at a celebrity golf day planned for next April.

She said: "The events can be of any size. We have one which is holding a cream tea too but others could be smaller affairs.

"Every penny raised counts and it all contributes to the care being offered by the hospice.

"It is also about raising awareness and promoting a healthy lifestyle."

Anyone wanting to hold a golf day for the hospice is asked to contact the St Helena Hospice community fundraising partnership manager Ruth Bendle by emailing rbendle@sthelenahospice.org.uk or calling 01206 931468.