A former Rugby World Cup winner who has backed a Christmas fundraising appeal for West Suffolk Hospital’s neonatal unit has described it as a “fantastic cause”.

Former Bath, Wasps and Harlequins star Andrew Gomarsall has donated a rugby coaching session and motivational talk to a bumper online auction arranged by West Suffolk Hospital Charity. The unique prize will give under-18 or school teams the rare opportunity to spend half a day learning from a member of England’s victorious World Cup winning team of 2003.

Gomarsall, a scrum half who is also a director of Bury St Edmunds-based IT security company Network2Supplies (N2S), decided to back the appeal after experiencing neonatal care first hand.

He said: “At N2S, we try to do whatever we can to support the local community and already help a number of local good causes. We are delighted to be supporting this fantastic initiative.

“Without wanting to go into too much detail, I have spent time on a neonatal unit so I do have an insight into what families needing these services go through and how difficult it can be. I sincerely hope this initiative raises lots of money for the neonatal unit at the West Suffolk Hospital, which has a special place in the hearts of many local people.”

In addition to Gomarsall’s generous donation, a range of other fantastic lots have also gone under the virtual hammer, including the chance to meet Strictly Come Dancing star Brendan Cole and Six Nations tickets.

People can also bid for a meal for six cooked in their own home by renowned chef Regis Crepy, at visit to Newmarket Races followed by cocktails, dinner and an overnight stay at Angel Hotel in Bury and a two-night stay at an Old English Inn.

Dave Gooderham, fundraising manager for the hospital, said: “We would like to thank everyone who has donated prizes and already bid in this auction. We’ve been delighted with the support we’ve received so far.

“We’d encourage anyone who is searching for a unique Christmas gift to look at the full list of lots on offer and take this chance to grab that perfect present while also supporting this important local charity.”

For a full list of the lots or to bid, visit www.wsh.nhs.uk/Charity. The auction ends at 10pm on Sunday (15 December).