The jersey Bermuda specialist batsman David Hemp wore against India at the 2007 World Cup in Trinidad has been auctioned off at the formal launching of the Glamorgan skipper's Benefit Year in Cardiff, Wales.

Hemp hit a classy and unbeaten 76 to lead the Island's resistance in a record-shattering 257 run loss to Rahul Dravid's India at Queen's Park Oval in Port-of Spain.

It is understood proceeds from the auctioned jersey will now to go towards the financing of a children's hospital in Wales.

In recognition of his decade-long service to Glamorgan Hemp has been granted a Benefit Year which will see a number of "exciting" events held in the left handed batsman's honor and donations made in his name to charity.

Addressing those gathered at the official launching of his Benefit Year, Hemp, stated: "I am honoured to be granted a Benefit Year by the club and hope that both cricket fans and business organisations alike will be able to enjoy a wide range of activities and events planned during the year.

"I am also very pleased to be supporting the excellent work being done by the Noah's Ark Appeal in its ongoing fund raising efforts for what is an extremely worthwhile cause."

The Noah's Ark Appeals is the charitable organisation set up to raise funds for the construction of a children's hospital in Wales.

The first phase of the project was opened in 2005 since which thousands of children have received treatment.

In a career that has spanned nearly two decades, Glamorgan skipper Hemp has amassed more than 20,000 First Class runs.

The stylish batsman represented England 'A' on a 1995 tour of India and Bangladesh and over the years has earned the respect of some of the game's finest.

"In 15 years as a professional cricketer David has been just that - a model pro," commented former Somerset and England all rounder Sir Ian Botham, who gave the senior national team batsman a ringing endorsement.

Former South African pace bowler Allan Donald also rates Hemp highly.

"David simply has class and makes batting look stupidly easy and that for a bowler spells danger," he said.

Hemp suited up for Bermuda earlier this month at the Stanford 20/20 Tournament in Antigua, scoring a team high 23 against defending champions Guyana.