A Frome charity shop hopes to give a big boost to its fundraising with a special sale of the most unusual and interesting donations.
The Barnardo’s store in Kingsway Precinct has launched a ‘silent auction’ after two previous events generated an impressive total of more than £1,300.
More than 20 items will be on display from Thursday 16th March. They include Victorian postcard albums, comic book annuals, teddy bears and even a banjo.
Customers can submit their sealed bids until Friday 24th March, with the winning bidders contacted the following Monday.
Barnardo’s manager Judith Loughlin said, “We decided to arrange silent auctions after we received several donations which we knew were quite valuable but were hard to price, so we wanted to see how much people thought they were worth.
“The first auction was in December and raised £600 and the second was in January and raised £700, so we’re hoping the sums will continue to increase as word spreads and more people become involved.
“Customers have really enjoyed looking at the items on display and guessing at their worth.
“Popular donations at previous auctions included Mulberry handbags, toy soldiers and wind-up Hornby steam locomotives.
“This time I think there will be lots of interest in a Royal Doulton Tower of London jug – it’s part of a limited edition and is in excellent condition.
“Customers can view the display and then leave their written bids in the box provided.
“We are sincerely grateful for each and every donation. Now we need to make the most of people’s generosity by raising as much money as possible to support vulnerable children.”
The Barnardo’s Kingsway Precinct store is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
The team always welcome good-quality clothes, books, toys, games, accessories and bric-a-brac as well as offers of help from potential volunteers. Call 01373 463513 for more information.
