February 8, 2001 16:39: A BOTTLE of whisky, signed by Tony Blair, is to be auctioned off to raise money to update a parish church.

The auction is to be held at Oldham Hall, Great Missenden, to help pay for a disabled toilet and a small kitchen.

The church members are trying to develop St Peter and St Paul's C of E church in Walnut Close, Great Missenden and open it up to the local community.

Michael Connolly is chairing the fundraising and is also a church warden.

He said: "We asked him (Tony Blair) to come to our launch appeal but he was busy and so he donated a bottle of whisky which was signed by him. It's a House of Commons Whisky."

The evening is on February 10 and starts at 7.30pm. Tickets at £5 are available on (01494) 862642.