There is only £22,000 to go as the St Leonard's Hospice £2 million reaches the final countdown - with a weekend of fun-packed events coming up.

A community fun day in the grounds of York College takes place tomorrow along with a giant auction at the Racecourse.

The charity auction, by the York Lions in the Tote Room, is a must for all those who like a bargain.

Viewing of the wide range of household and garden items that have been donated is from 10am, and with BBC Radio York presenter Adam Tomlinson as auctioneer, the bidding will start at 12.30pm.

Profits from the event will be divided equally between St Leonard's Hospice final countdown and the York Lions 2001 charities.

The York Lions had an excellent response to their request for items in last month's Evening Press. Tony Moore, activities chairman in charge of fundraising, said: "We have everything from a pin to an elephant in this auction.

"There is something for everyone and real bargains to be had so come along and have a look.

"The more people that come the more we can donate to the hospice and our 2001 charities."

Janet Morley, fundraising manager for the hospice, said: "York Lions have worked extremely hard to organise this event so we hope lots of bargain hunters will turn up to make this event a roaring success for the Lions and the hospice."

Donations towards the final £22,000 can be sent to the St Leonard's fundraising office at 14 York Road, Acomb, York, YO24 4LU, or dropped off in an envelope marked for the attention of Emma Harrison, St Leonard's Hospice 2000 Appeal, to the front desk of the Evening Press in Walmgate.

Or you can call into one of the shops, which are in Fourth Avenue,Tang Hall; The Village, Haxby; Waterloo Lane, Pocklington and the York Road shop, Acomb.

If you are organising or taking part in any activities in the coming weeks to raise money for the appeal, contact Emma Harrison in the Evening Press newsroom on 01904 653051 ext: 314 or e-mail on emma.harrison@ycp.co.uk