SILENCE is golden - or so one Worcester resident is hoping.

John Hawkins, who lives in Bromsgrove Street, Barbourne, is planning on keeping his mouth shut for a whole week to raise as much money as possible for a national charity.

The 44-year-old postman regularly contributes to DebRA - which funds research into the incurable genetic skin blistering condition Epidermolysis Bullosa - and is hoping a sponsored silence will boost their coffers by up to £1,000.

"The silence is to be for a whole week from Sunday, May 1 to Sunday, May 8 or Sunday, May 22 to Sunday, May 29," he said.

"But first I need some help.

"I will need somewhere to do the silence, volunteers to keep watch, and firms and individuals to sponsor me."

Anyone who can help Mr Hawkins should call him on 01905 28794.