QUITE what Caister coach operator Charles Reynolds was going to do with a collection of signed soap memorabilia bought at a charity auction he did not know - so he gave them back.

QUITE what Caister coach operator Charles Reynolds was going to do with a collection of signed soap memorabilia bought at a charity auction he did not know - so he gave them back.

On bank holiday Monday the collection of EastEnders items still lay uncollected at the Oceans Room venue where he bought them for �100 on Friday.

He said that bidding had not been brisk and that he had forked out the cash to support the memory clubs set to benefit from the proceeds - not because he cherished the lot which included a script, T-shirt and photos signed by the cast.

After the auction Mel Thomas said she was extremely grateful to Mr Reynolds whose kindness meant she still had the items, the �100 he paid for them and the chance of making more in another arena.

Ms Thomas who runs two clubs aimed at helping people who struggle with memory loss hopes it is someone's longtime fancy to own such a collection and wants to connect with fans who may be looking for the perfect present.

Mr Reynolds said the memory clubs had put business his way and that the auction was an opportunity for him to recognise their good work.

He said that even exchanging pleasantries with Barbara Winsor and her dinner date Dale Winton in a London restaurant had not been enough to convert him into an EastEnders fan and that Ms Thomas could have the items back “with my compliments.”

The items were donated by Laila Morse aka market trader Mo Harris who has taken a personal interest in the clubs - and the work of Ms Thomas - since they met on holiday over the New Year.

Ms Morse offered the signed items to help raise money for the clubs which are run by volunteers on a shoestring budget.

Ms Thomas hopes the lots will raise enough to put a good chunk towards an outing in July which includes transport to Cromer's end-of-pier summer show and lunch on the way at Walcott's Lighthouse Inn.

To bid or to find out more about the clubs which meet in St Andrews Chapter House and the Magdalen Methodist Church, both in Gorleston, call Mel Thomas on 01493 600040 or 0771 4578272.