Yoko Ono part of Lennon foundation launch

Liverpool, England -- An auction, a jigsaw puzzle and remarks by Yoko Ono highlighted the pre-launch of a global children's foundation in memory of John Lennon in Liverpool, England.

The John Lennon Child Health Foundation, officially launched Friday at the Alder Hey Children's Hospital, eventually will benefit children worldwide as part of the hospital's Imagine appeal, of which Ono is honorary patron, the Liverpool Daily Post reported.

Speaking Thursday at a fundraiser before the launch, Ono said: "The fact that this cause is named after John would have pleased him greatly. The work that is being done here stretches out to the world, in the way many great Liverpudlians have done."

During the charity auction, guests could buy pieces of medical equipment -- such as a bone scanner -- which they could donate to the hospital. Ono donated nearly $100,000 to the foundation.

The foundation will become part of the proposed Children's Health Park to be built adjacent to Alder Hey.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International.