Under the charity hammer

An open auction is to be held at St Michael's church, Glassenbury Drive, on Saturday October 2 from 3pm, and it is hoped the public will support it by giving quality items to be offered up as lots.

The Observer reported in July how the church had been targetted by lead thieves four times in two years. The last theft had left the congregation having to find 5,000 to pay for damage to the roof because St Michael's had already reached its insurance claim limit for the year.

District Church Council secretary Edna Akam said this week: "We have been raising money for the roof and we have done amazingly well, and exceeded what we needed - we got over 6,000 which is great.

"We have to pay for the roof to be replaced completely, so that money is all earmarked, but for the future of the ministry and the upkeep of the church we are absolutely at rock bottom with funds.

"So we want to raise money and also bring more money to the church. It would be lovely if people donated goods to the auction and came to it as well."

So far Edna, who will act as auctioneer, has collected desireable items such as oil paintings, rose bowl, croquet set, and dvd player.

"If anyone has items which might be worth 20-30 that would be fantastic because it will all go the the church, and if we raise enough we will be able to give to our outreach charities too. But it is also about raising awareness of the church...it would be lovely to involve more people, and bring more people into the church."

If you have any items to donate to St Michael's church auction please call 01424 425528 to arrange collection.