TV celeb Lorraine Kelly is backing a nationwide Coffee Break event to fight meningitis, an illness that kills more children under five in the UK than any other infectious disease.

The Meningitis Trust's eleventh annual Coffee Break will be held from March 4-18 and is sponsored by Clipper, the organic and ethically traded tea and coffee company.

Lorraine said: "As a working mum I think Coffee Break is a great idea in a great cause. "Whether you hold a coffee break at home or at work, by day or by night, it's the perfect excuse to catch up with friends over a cuppa and help provide support for life for those affected by meningitis. She added: "Having met families whose lives have been changed forever by this horrific disease I hope events such as Coffee Break will help spare others the experiences they've been through."

The Meningitis Trust offers support for those affected by meningitis, raises awareness to help people recognise the signs of the disease and funds vital research into vaccines and treatments. The Trust depends almost entirely on donations from the public.

Events packs are by contacting Event Hotline on 0845 601 6936 or visit www.meningitis-trust.org/involved.

Common symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia: fever, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, drowsiness, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, high-pitched cry and a bulging fontanelle or soft spot at the top of the head in babies.

Symptoms can appear in any order and may not all appear at once. Both adults and children may have a rash (septicaemia) that doesn't disappear under pressure. Do not wait for a rash as it may not always appear.

If you suspect meningitis seek medical help immediately. Contact the Meningitis 24- hour, nurse-led helpline for information, literature and support on 0845 8000 600 or www.meningitis-trust.org

Updated: 15:51 Friday, January 28, 2005