World-famous musician Dame Evelyn Glennie has wowed audiences across the globe and last year performed at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics.

Now the percussionist is inviting Hunts Post readers to take part in a more intimate event closer to home in aid of the Woodlands Cancer Centre extension appeal.

Dame Evelyn, as well as being a motivational speaker and jewellery designer, is also a keen collector of instruments – her collection totals more than 1,800 pieces – and to support the fundraising campaign she has agreed to give 10 people a private tour of her Huntingdon HQ.

Among her prized possessions is an Aluphone, a set of metal bells she played at the Olympic Stadium last July, the first time it was used. She also owns one of the world’s largest timpani – kettledrum.

As an international star, she travels extensively – this month she was in China – and while away she often spends any free time percussion shopping.

But next month, during a break in her hectic schedule, Dame Evelyn herself will conduct the private hour-long viewing, a chance to discover what happens behind the scenes at the headquarters of the first person to make a full-time solo career from playing percussion.

The tour of her Hinchingbrooke factory unit, from 3pm on Thursday, October 17, will also be the perfect opportunity to find out more about her instruments and the latest additions to the collection.

To be in with a chance of being there, simply take part in our secret auction.

Come up with a figure for how much you would be prepared to pay per ticket to join the tour, which will include refreshments. There will be a maximum of two tickets per bidder.

Send your bid, plus whether you are bidding for one or two tickets, to The Evelyn Glennie Bid, Woodlands Cancer Centre, Hinchingbrooke Park, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 6NT. All bids need to be submitted by Thursday, October 10.

In the event of a tied bid, bidders will be contacted and given the opportunity to raise their bid.

INFORMATION: For more details, call Gini Melesi on 07715 037711.