A SILENT auction to raise awareness of fibromyalgia and help buy equipment for sufferers in Chippenham has raised more than £650.

Dozens of pictures and portraits were bought at the Fibromyalgia Research UK event at the Mill House on December 2, allowing the charity to buy much needed medical items for its members.

Organiser Zoe Hill, who was diagnosed with the condition four years ago, said: “We had lots of people come throughout the day making bids for their favourite pieces, including Mayor, Councillor Mary Norton and MP Michelle Donelan. We raised £653.63.

“The money will go towards fibromyalgia sufferers who need items but can not afford them and who have contacted us to ask for our help obtaining these items.

“Some of the people we will help include a lady who needs a bathroom grab bar and two ladies who will get a wheelchair each and a TENS machine.”

Fibromyalgia Research UK also has Facebook page to provide support to sufferers at www.facebook.com/groups/753322534769373/