Jokes and giggles among bidders at a charity auction meant a fun night out – and £1,800 for a sports club’s funds.
The top selling lots up for auction were a Castle Royle Golf Club voucher and a Reading Football Club poster signed by the Reading team which played Wigan recently.
They each made £150. The 78 lots also included antiques and MP and Sonning resident Theresa May’s signed copy of her book, The Abuse of Power. She is the club’s patron.
The bowling club needs £200,000 to replace their ageing clubhouse which is damp in the winter.
Independent auctioneer Rachel Hutchinson said: “The auction went very well. Everyone seemed to be having a good time. There were lots of jokes and giggles in the audience which is always a good sign.”
Auction organiser Brent Ellis, a club member, added: “We’re grateful to Rachel for coming. She encouraged the bidders to dig deeper into their pockets.
“We’d also like to thank everyone who came and our members who hunted in their attics for items to sell. We had generous support from local businesses including restaurants, pubs, Wickes DIY and garden centres.”
Only a small proportion of the lots, about 15%, failed to sell at Hurst Village Hall last Saturday. There’s another chance to help the club, said to be the UK’s second oldest.
On Saturday, April 20 they’re holding an open day at the club in Church Hill, Hurst behind The Castle Inn. Everyone is invited between noon and 6pm to have a go for free. You need to wear flat shoes or trainers.
Equipment, guidance and refreshments will be available. Call Frazer Broomby 07804 297594 to book a rink and instructor. Annual membership on the day will be half price.
The club is a charitable organisation, serving its community. Working with LINK Wokingham and SHINE via Wokingham Borough Council they invite people to play bowls and chat on Thursday afternoons in the playing season.
Mr Ellis said: “If there is a philanthropist in the local community who could help us with a donation we’d love to hear from them.” The club’s website is at www.hurstbowlingclub.co.uk
