Ipswich Sports Club maintenance staff David Stiles, left, and Bruce Wade with the racquet and dress from tennis star Elena Baltacha

IPSWICH: Britain’s top woman tennis player Elena Baltacha has been praised today for making a special donation to help fund an Ipswich man’s charity trip.

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The British number one, who is currently competing at the US Open, has given the racket and dress she wore at Wimbledon to Bruce Wade in an effort to help him hit his fundraising target.

Mr Wade, of Norwich Road, will be taking part in a 10-day trip to Kenya to help schoolchildren as part of a team from Ipswich Town Football Club’s Charitable Trust.

The 61-year-old is delighted to have been given the collector’s items and will now hand them over to the highest bidder.

In addition, Mr Wade said he will double the amount they raise for the charity.

He said: “It is a wonderful gesture. To think Elena has given me the racket and dress, and that she is prepared to help the Trust is marvellous.

“I’m a member of Ipswich Sports Club, and have stood and watched in awe as she practises there with her coach.

“Elena gave me the racket and dress, as well as a letter of authenticity for both of them, and said try to get as much as you can.

“I’m open to offers. All the money will go to the Ipswich Town FC trust and whatever they make I will double it.

“Anyone who would like to buy the racket and dress can telephone me on 07713 421333.”

More than 20 people are due to go on the trip to help underprivileged children in Kenya.

Mr Wade said they will be living with families while working at impoverished schools where, often, the children get their only regular meals.

Among the volunteers taking part will be former Ipswich Town midfielder Simon Milton.

Mr Wade is looking to raise at least £2,000 and is asking for people to help him reach his target.

He said: “I would be happy for people to contact me if they would like to make a donation. They can do that by going to the Just Giving website and typing in Bruce Wade.

The Trust’s trip to Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is due to begin on October 9, and will involving teaching, working with the children, and football coaching.

Weblink: www.justgiving.com/Bruce-Wade

Has working abroad for a charity changed your perspective of life? E-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk or write to Star Letters, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN.