Bids roll in for PTA promises

The chance of a week’s use of an apartment in the Algarve and a trial helicopter lesson had people digging deep for cash at a promises auction.
Promises auction at Napton Village Hall for St Lawrence CE School PTA.Promises auction at Napton Village Hall for St Lawrence CE School PTA.
Promises auction at Napton Village Hall for St Lawrence CE School PTA.

There was even the chance to bid for a running buddy, with the promise to take the winning bidder from couch potato to a 5k run-fitness level in 12 weeks.

The auction was staged in Napton Village Hall and organised by St Lawrence CE School PTA.

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Organisers said it raised £5,245 through auction promises and the tally is expected to be more than £6,000 with drinks and ticket sales.

The school opened a new classroom this year, meaning every year group has its own room, and the PTA’s efforts go towards making sure they are well equipped, providing computer tablets and financing school trips.

PTA secretary Rachel Pelter said there was a tremendous atmosphere on the night, with nearly 100 parents and villagers taking part.

She said: “The buzz in the hall was electric with drinks flowing, a marvellous spread of food to tuck into, a lively band and all the thrill and tension of the auction itself .

“What more could anyone ask of a night’s entertainment?”

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She said parents, villagers and businesses in the area were asked to donate promises, which could be as straightforward as offering an hour or two of their time, utilising their skills and hobbies or tapping into their workplace for ideas.

“More than 70 promises were made and to suggest that the range was ‘eclectic’ would be an understatement!

“Offers of babysitting, ironing, baking and gardening to pet care, portrait photography sessions, afternoon teas, three-course dinners and children’s entertainment came flooding in.

“More unusual promises took the form of a running buddy who promised to take you from ‘couch potato to 5k in 12 weeks’, a bespoke service to make the ‘dressing-up outfit of your choice’ and a ‘character waiter and waitress for your dinner party’.

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“At the higher end of the spectrum we had a tour of Heathrow Air Traffic Control, a trial helicopter lesson and a week’s use of an apartment on the Algarve.

“This really was an inclusive event with something for everyone, whatever their interests or budget.

“Our children are very fortunate to attend a village school which has such tangible backing and goodwill from its wider community.”

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