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A ‘beastly’ bespoke poetry performance, the chance to build your own beehive, and a boozy Christmas pudding cooked up by a former States Member are among the weird and wonderful lots set to feature in this year's Christmas charity auction... but more are still needed.
The Jersey Christmas Appeal Auction will be launched online at the end of November, with the finale taking place on Sunday 4 December.
Traditionally, the event features around 200 lots, and organisers Fiona Walker and Annette Blanchet are hoping to get another 50 by this weekend's donation deadline on Saturday (12 November) to be able to match previous years.
The long-running Jersey Christmas Appeal helps around 1,500 individuals and families who might otherwise struggle through the festive period each year, by supporting them with food hampers, toy vouchers and fuel coupons.
Its key fundraiser is an annual auction, which always aims to delight and surprise with quirky offerings and experiences that money can't buy.
Lots received in 2021 included a flight in a spitfire, having tea with the Lieutenant-Governor at Elizabeth Castle, or even lunching with the Real Housewives of Jersey. In the end, the auction raised ££51,803 - more than half of the total received by the Appeal.
Looking to continue their success this year, organisers are making a last big push for donations.
Pictured: A chance to dine with the Real Housewives was on offer at the charity auction last year.
While Fiona said "things are going well so far" thanks to people being "amazingly generous", she explained that more lots are still needed as the Christmas Appeal is likely to be needed more than ever this year.
"A lot of people are going to be asking for help this year in this horrendous economic climate," she said.
Among the show-stopping lots donated so far is a McLaren rear wing flap signed by F1 stars Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo.
Moving into quirkier territory, 'The Story Beast' - a.k.a. legendary local actor John Henry Falle - has pledged his dramatic services to one lucky bidder, who will get their own custom poem and performance.
For those not of an artistic persuasion, other lots include the chance to build your own beehive or make your own gym.
Pictured: A signed McLaren rear wing flap signed by Lando Norris (above) and Daniel Ricciardo is up for grabs at this year's Jersey Christmas Appeal auction.
More humble lots are also on offer, and islanders are persuaded to give anything they can.
For instance, included in this year's lots are hampers, vouchers, Jersey wonders, wines, beers and even a Christmas Pudding hand made by former Housing Minister and Senator, Terry Le Main, which Fiona happily informed us was "more alcohol than pudding."
The auction itself will begin online on the last weekend of November. The final stage of the auction will take place live on Channel 103.
Want to donate a lot? All offers are welcome, no matter the size or type!
CLICK HERE to donate.
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