Auction for Ukraine war victims attracts thousands of pounds-worth of donations

An employee from the Romanian Emergency Situations Department holds young refugee fleeing the conflict from neighbouring Ukraine at the Romanian-Ukrainian border, in Siret, Romania, Thursday, March 10, 2022. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru).
An employee from the Romanian Emergency Situations Department holds young refugee fleeing the conflict from neighbouring Ukraine at the Romanian-Ukrainian border, in Siret, Romania, Thursday, March 10, 2022. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru).
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

THOUSANDS of pounds-worth of lots, from private aircraft flights to pub nights out, have been donated to an auction raising cash for victims of the war in Ukraine.

Those behind the event in Royal Wootton Bassett on Sunday have been overwhelmed with the result of their call for donations.

Organisers Sue Hughes and Liz Eastgate said: "With the daily coverage of the events, destruction and resulting humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Ukraine, we could not turn away and not play our part.

In response to our idea of running an auction, we have found the incredible generosity amongst the town's people of Royal Wootton Bassett heart-warming, inspiring and a way to bring a little light to these dark times."

They were full of gratitude for all the auction contributions, offers of help and for the generosity of those planning to bid on the day.

They added: "Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those impacted by the crisis."

More than 100 items have been offered by 60 separate donors and the value so far exceeds £3,000.

Among the lots offered by individuals, groups and businesses are a vintage Antoria six-string V100 electric guitar, horse training sessions, a painting, veterinary physiotherapy, tool hire and a bestselling book entitled Fartology: The Extraordinary Science behind the Humble Fart.

Money raised by the auction, staged at the Memorial Hall at 3pm, will go to the Disasters and Emergency Fund appeal which is providing food, water, medical help and trauma care for families affected by the invasion .

The conflict has created more than two million refugees - mainly women, the elderly and children - who are mainly in western countries bordering Ukraine.

Anyone wanting to donate a lot can call 07745 661091 or 07956 780894.

Alcohol can't be accepted but food items are welcome.

They should have a full list of ingredients and be taken to the hall on the day, between 1.30 and 2pm.

A bar and refreshments are planned to help things go with a swing.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos