The pub sign for the old White Hart in Hook could be auctioned off to raise money for vulnerable adults at the Fircroft Trust.

The derelict public house in Hook Road will soon be knocked down to make way for a new home for adults with learning difficulties, allowing them to stay together and live with dignity.

The Kingston Guardian has been asking people to support Fircroft Trust’s Building Potential Appeal to help raise the £1m to pay for the building work.

Peter Newman, 62, from Chessington, came up with the idea after reading about the appeal in the paper.

He said: “There must be lots of people who have gone into that pub over the years.

“Maybe there’s somebody who used to drink there before they became rich or famous.

“Anything that puts something in the kitty is good. There could be an auction. I might put in a bid as well, although I’m laid up after a knee operation for a few months.”

He suggested that other memorabilia from the pub including hand pumps or mirrors might raise a bob or two as well.

Fircroft Trust works with adults with learning difficulties including conditions like Down’s syndrome.

It provides care for 23 people in four homes in nearby Surbiton but, despite their warm, family feel, some of the old-fashioned buildings have steep staircases, no lifts and are totally unsuitable for people with physical disabilities.

If you have any fundraising ideas call the Kingston Guardian on 020 8330 9547 or visit kingstonguardian.co.uk/news/fircroftappeal.

• Want to become one of our community correspondents? Log on to our Your Say section, click here to email Diana Jarvis or phone 020 8330 9592.