Jane Jolliffe sitting in one of the lots, with auctioneer Tim Smith, behind. Picture by Peter Boam.
AUCTION organiser Jane Gibbs not only helped arrange a charity event but also made the winning bid to achieve a long-held ambition.
In August, Jane will get behind the wheel of a jumbo combine harvester after winning the opportunity at the recent Bargeman’s Rest charity auction to drive one.
Her winning bid contributed to the total raised for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice of more than £13,500.
"I don’t know why but I have always wanted to do it — and I am delighted the opportunity came my way," she said.
"I might even put The Wurzels I’ve Got a Brand New Combine Harvester on the stereo — if it has one."
Jane was the main organiser of the event, at the Newport pub on Saturday, aided by her husband, Andrew, and the retail manager of Arreton Old Village, Jane Jolliffe.
Auctioneer was Tim Smith, from Island Auction Rooms, who also entertained with his Frank Spencer impersonation.
The star lot proved to be a gardening book autographed by its author, Alan Titchmarsh, combined with plants and gardening tools, which fetched £420.
That beat Southampton FC home and away shirts autographed by the Premiership promotion-winning team. They were snapped up by a fan for £410.
A framed pair of shorts, signed by the Barcelona soccer star Lionel Messi fetched £250 at the auction, which was attended by more than 150 people.
"Despite tough times, people were incredibly generous — both in donating lots and bidding for them," said Jane.
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk