A BIG auction organised by the Big Issues raised big money at the RDS, Dublin, yesterday when over £200,000 worth of items were bid for in an auction which lasted almost eight hours.
To raise funds for services for the homeless and the unemployed, 1,300 lots were auctioned, including a fourball and dinner with Ireland soccer manager Mick McCarthy, return flights to Singapore, a signed Boyzone CD, an "invaluable" lifetime subscription to Hot Press, mobile phones, ceramics, jewellery, driving lessons, office equipment and even a bathroom suite.
A home central heating system worth £2,000 went for £1,100 a multi media computer system valued at £3,500, sold for £1,700 and the first class air tickets to Singapore, worth £2,200, went for £1,500.
Co ordinator Mr Niall Skelly said last night they were "overwhelmed" by the response and the number of people who had turned up. They expect to gross over £60,000 from the auction. "We are really grateful to all the companies who donated products."
Bidders gathered at Simmonscourt from early yesterday, examining the lots which were placed on long tables. Auctioneer Mr David Treacy, who gave his services free, began the bidding after 1 p.m. and continued, practically non stop, until almost 8.30 p.m.
Co ordinator Ms Mary Meaney said they hold a number of events each year and they were looking for something a "bit unusual" to raise money.
The proceeds from "The Big Auction" will go towards the Big Issues Social Initiative which is raising funds to build supported accommodation for people who are homeless.
It will also help establish an enterprise and tourism centre under the arches of Connolly railway station in Dublin, providing up to 500 full time jobs.