As part of Chandlers Building Supplies’ £50,000 charity campaign, the builders’ merchant is holding a charity silent auction, and there is one lot that could make the ultimate Christmas present.

Best-selling crime author, Peter James, is offering the chance for one lucky person to become a character in his next novel. The highest bidder will be able to have their name or their company name immortalised in print forever.

Richard Skinner, commercial director at Chandlers said: “This really is a once in a lifetime opportunity and something that could make a fantastic Christmas gift. A big thank you in advance to anyone that supports our charity campaign and makes a bid, it really is appreciated.”

The winning bidder and a guest will also be invited to attend the novel’s launch party in June 2014 and will receive a signed copy of the finished book.

The Chandlers £50k Challenge is aiming to raise £50,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust in honour of Chandlers’ employee Rob Sadler, a Cystic Fibrosis sufferer himself. Mr Sadler will be having a double celebration during 2013, marking not only 30 years of Chandlers’ employment, but more significantly his 50th birthday; those with Cystic Fibrosis are not expected to live beyond their 30s.

To make a bid for the Peter James characterisation, visit the Chandlers website at www.chandlersbs.co.uk and click on the Chandlers £50k Challenge tab. Bidding closes at midnight on 15 December and 100% of the money will go towards the Chandlers £50k Challenge. Terms and conditions are available on the website.