A Warmley man has amassed a collection of 600 books signed by some of the world's most famous authors in a two-year campaign to raise money for a multiple sclerosis charity.

Grant Thompson, 46, who has MS, has now begun auctioning off his signed books and merchandise with a target of raising £20,000 for Bristol and Avon Multiple Sclerosis (BrAMS).

After contacting famous authors and celebrities, Mr Thompson has collected children's books, factual books, novels from both English and American authors, celebrity autobiographies, film posters and even items of clothing.

Books include signed titles from Stephanie Meyer, John le Carré, Martina Cole, Maeve Binchy and Sir Ranulph Fiennes, many of which are first editions and rare.

Also in the collection is a signed first edition copy of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows from the 'moonlight signing' at the Natural History Museum, complete with the special hologram. This alone is expected to fetch £2,000.

Celebrities who have donated include Michael Parkinson, Alan Shearer and Martin Johnson.

Lucky bidders can even get their hands on a dress worn by Barbara Windsor and a CD from Russell Crowe.

Mr Thompson, who works for Bath and North East Somerset Council, said: "The past two years have been really hard work but I've loved every minute of it. I wanted to do something for BrAMS but because of my MS I couldn't do the standard marathon runs or sponsored swims, so I had to think of something a bit different.

"This started as a small idea and has grown into a massive achievement. The vast majority of people I have contacted have been wonderful and have sent some great stuff. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself when it's all sold."

Based at Frenchay Hospital, BrAMS is a 'centre of excellence' providing help to people with MS locally, nationally and internationally and conducting groundbreaking research.

Money raised by the auction will go towards stem cell research, funding drug trials and offering treatment.

BrAMS volunteer and promoter Alison McCarthy said: "The items Grant has managed to get hold of are incredible. When this started we never imagined he'd get such gems and so many.

"These are the perfect 'money can't buy' Christmas gifts as most of the books are not only signed, but include a personal note from the author."

Mr Thompson's signed items will be available to bid on until December 13. To find the internet link, visit www.brams.org.uk.