Newcastle star in Alzheimer's Society fundraising appeal

The Danish forward, who lost his father to the illness two years ago, will be offering match-worn items from his Toon teammates as well as a host of exclusive prizes from the world of football and elsewhere via his account on Twitter.

Having set up a page with fundraising website JustGiving, Lovenkrands is urging people to donate to the cause, with the incentive of money-can't-buy items for a handful of lucky contributors.

Through his account, the 32-year-old international will be announcing some top prizes, including an incredible opportunity for two people to attend the Manchester City home game, meeting Peter on arrival who will take the winners into the dressing room to meet the full squad before the game.

Other prizes include star midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa's signed boots, Tim Krul's signed goalkeeper gloves and a signed match-worn number nine shirt from striker Papiss Cissé. Other clubs have also donated items to support Peter's appeal, and there are prizes to appeal to anyone who isn't a football fan, such as a year's supply of Ultimo underwear donated by Michelle Mone.

To be in with a chance of winning, all the bidders have to do is donate a minimum amount of £5 for most prizes (£30 for the top once-in-a-lifetime prize), which Peter will outline how to do via his Twitter account. The winner of each item will be announced by Peter himself on the social networking site. He said:

'It's really about raising as much money as possible for a charity that is very close to my heart and it's a good way for people to get involved and get something back for their donation. One hundred per cent of all donations received goes straight to Alzheimer's Society directly.

There are some great prizes up for grabs and people have been very kind since I came up with the idea. A lot of our players and also my friends outside Newcastle United have donated items that you just can't buy.'

Peter's father, Bent, lost his battle with Alzheimer's in January 2010, and just three days later the former Rangers frontman paid tribute in the perfect way, scoring in a crucial clash with West Brom and dedicating the goal to his dad. Peter added:

'I remember that night very clearly and I was desperate to get a goal. He was very proud of everything I've achieved in football and it was a nice way to remember him.

Now it's about raising awareness about the vital work that Alzheimer's Society do, and about getting as many donations in as possible.

As a professional footballer, I'm fortunate to be in a position where I can appeal for causes such as this, and I'm hoping lots of people get involved through Twitter and help to make a difference for people with dementia.'

Caroline Burden, North-East and Cumbria Area Manager at  Alzheimer's Society, added:

'Peter has always been a high impact player on the pitch, and with over 32,000 people in the North East living with some form of dementia it's fantastic to have him on board to help Alzheimer's Society tackle the dementia challenge.

The money Peter is raising will help us support people to live well with dementia today whilst we work to find a cure tomorrow.'

You can track Peter's appeal on Twitter by following @lovenkrands11, and donate to Alzheimer's Society via his JustGiving page at: www.justgiving.com/lovenkrands11