ORGANISERS of this year’s Jersey Christmas Appeal Charity Auction were “humbled” at the weekend as the initiative generated more than £62,000 to support Islanders in need over the festive season.
The main auction, which was broadcast live on Channel 103 on Sunday, raised £56,059 – with a further £6,200 brought in through the appeal’s “Pledge a Wedge” holiday prize draw.
The funds will be used to provide food, fuel and toy vouchers for Islanders in need of help over the Christmas period.
Organisers have previously described this support as “more crucial than ever” amid cost-of-living pressures in recent years.
Among the star lots claimed by Islanders was a private tour of the gardens of Government House and afternoon tea with the Lieutenant-Governor, Vice-Admiral Jerry Kyd, and his wife, Dr Karen Kyd, which drew a winning bid of £10,000.
“That was brilliant; it put a real spring in our step,” said auction co-presenter Fiona Walker, who described the overall total raised as “uplifting”.
“It was amazing considering the situation that a lot of people are in,” she added.
“I’ve been humbled by the generosity of the people both providing lots and bidding.”
She also highlighted the “untold work behind the scenes” of organiser Annette Blanchet, who she said played a key part in the appeal’s success.
Among the other star lots claimed was a tour of Mont Orgueil Castle with the Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq (winning bid: £2,500), a lunch with Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham (winning bid: £875) and a helicopter ride around Jersey for two (winning bid: £892).
