Country sports under the hammer at Molland auction

AN annual country sports auction at Molland Village Hall has raised �8,500 for Devon Air Ambulance Trust.

Field sports traditionally generate significant support from people in the village, and more than 100 people turned out to the evening auction presiding over by auctioneer James Green of Stags.

The auctions have raised more than �120,000 during the last 10 years and organisers Paul and Jane Beazley were delighted with the success of the event on Saturday, October 16.

“Thanks to everyone who attended the and, of course, to everyone who donated goods and services,” said Mr Beazley.

“Items donated were many and varied, from locally produced meats and honey, original paintings and handmade toys, to outdoor clothing and sporting adventures, making a total of 147 lots available.

“Of particular note was a pen donated by Prime Minister David Cameron, engraved with 10 Downing Street, London, which achieved �35. Also available, and reaching the princely sum of �82, was a jar of pickled onions!

“The lot that achieved the highest bid, a day for 4-5 guns at the Milton shoot, fetched an impressive �1,020 and was kindly donated by Paul Lugg. Special thanks also go to Kenny Kingdon for his generous donation of honey pots and to Jeremy and Jo Boyd for their donation of a day at the Affton shoot.”

Helena Holt, chief executive of Devon Air Ambulance Trust, said: “We would like to thank Paul, Jane, James the Auctioneer and everyone else involved with this fantastic event, their continued support is very much appreciated.”

Mr Beazley added: “Air ambulances provide an essential service, especially in the more rural parts of Devon where land ambulances can take a long time to reach remote locations.

“For this reason, the rural community cherishes the Devon Air Ambulance and the wonderful work it does on behalf of us all. In return, we run this very popular auction and are delighted to raise valuable funds to help this worthy cause.”