Devoted Harry Potter enthusiasts have a magical opportunity to secure an extraordinary collection while supporting a vital cause. A complete set of the seven novels, each signed by a dozen stars from the iconic film series, is being offered as the top prize in a special charity draw.
A Tribute to Alan Rickman and a Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer
The fundraiser is organised by Pancreatic Cancer UK and serves as a poignant memorial to the late actor Alan Rickman, who passed away from the disease a decade ago in 2016. Rickman, beloved by millions for his portrayal of the complex Potions Master Severus Snape across all eight films, was 69 when he died just six months after his diagnosis.
His widow, Rima Horton, a trustee of the charity, shared a heartfelt message. "Alan was a wonderful actor, an incredibly kind man, and, through Harry Potter in particular, he was loved by millions of people all over the world. But he meant even more to me," she said. "The news he had pancreatic cancer was sudden, and a complete shock to us both."
She emphasised the ongoing battle, noting that ten years on, the disease remains the deadliest common cancer. "It doesn't have to be that way, and Alan wouldn't want us to give up," Ms Horton added.
The Stellar Signed Collection and How to Enter
The prize is a coveted set of seven hardback books, autographed by a remarkable roster of actors from the Wizarding World. The signatories include:
- Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley)
- Ralph Fiennes (Lord Voldemort)
- Dame Emma Thompson (Professor Sybill Trelawney)
- Matthew Lewis (Neville Longbottom)
- Sir Kenneth Branagh (Gilderoy Lockhart)
- Helena Bonham Carter (Bellatrix Lestrange)
Also adding their signatures are Dame Imelda Staunton (Dolores Umbridge), Jim Broadbent (Professor Horace Slughorn), Miriam Margolyes (Professor Pomona Sprout), Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy), Miranda Richardson (Rita Skeeter), and Fiona Shaw (Petunia Dursley).
To be in with a chance of winning this unique collection, participants can purchase a ticket for the draw with a minimum donation of £5 to Pancreatic Cancer UK. The draw will close on Sunday, 1 March, after which one lucky winner will be selected.
The Urgent Need for Awareness and Research
The fundraiser highlights the critical challenges in fighting pancreatic cancer. Approximately 10,800 people in the UK are diagnosed each year. The charity points out that vague symptoms like back pain, indigestion, and tummy aches mean that in over 80% of cases, the cancer is not detected until it has spread, drastically limiting treatment options.
Diana Jupp, Chief Executive of Pancreatic Cancer UK, stated: "Pancreatic cancer is uniquely devastating and, by the time it is detected, tragically there can be very little time left." She expressed hope that the enduring love for Harry Potter would inspire people to help change the story for those affected.
Funds raised will power the charity's mission: funding pioneering research, campaigning for change, and running a free, confidential Support Line staffed by specialist nurses.
Rima Horton concluded with a message of hope: "With more funding, more research and more awareness, in future, many more people will have a chance to survive... Together we will write a better next chapter for everyone affected by pancreatic cancer."
To enter the prize draw and support this crucial work, visit the official competition page.
