Shopping centre auction raises thousands for learning disability charity

By Emma Hardwick, Reporter Sunday, January 27, 2013
8:00 AM

BIDDERS dug deep into their pockets to raise money for a “fabulous” local charity.

Members of the public spent one month bidding on an online auction, organised by the Howard Centre, in Welwyn Garden City, for Jubilee House, which helps young people with learning disabilities.

Chief executive Catharine Hopper was awarded the cheque in the shopping centre by members of staff who organised the auction late last year.

She said: “It is really good that local businesses have worked together to support a local charity.

“The money will contribute to the cost of refurbishing our children’s short break centre, ensuring that the children using the service have the best possible environment.”

There were a handful of lucrative prizes up for grabs, 02 donated a BlackBerry and the Howard Centre threw in three months free parking.

Campus West donated a private cinema viewing for up to 20 guests, which the hammer come down on £85.

With the help of Barclays Bank, the grand total was £1,786.

Monique Chandler, marketing administrator, who was there to award the cheque, said: “Jubilee House is a local charity and we must support them.

“They have a fabulous team and support the whole family, not just the young people.”

n To find out more about Jubilee House, visit the charity’s website at www.jubileehouse.com

http://www.whtimes.co.uk/news/