An unexpected windfall of unusual paintings, crockery and collectables will go under the hammer this week to help north-east people with disabilities live more independently.
The Archway charity was established more than 30 years ago but only opened its first shop – in Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place – earlier this year.
And since then it has been using the funds generated there to offer respite and care to almost 200 children, young people and adults.
Earlier this month it launched a £100,000 fundraising drive to transform a bungalow on St Margaret’s Place into an assisted living facility for four people.
On Saturday an eclectic collection of almost 100 items will be auctioned off in aid of that cause, including rare ornaments and oil paintings that could each fetch thousands of pounds.
Archway fundraising manager Janine Davies said: “Some lovely items and a large number of paintings were very kindly donated to us when we were in the process of opening the shop.
“We thought we had better get some advice to identify and value them before putting them up for sale.”
Among the lots is a framed artwork of Jesus praying from the 17th century, which is expected to raise up to £4,000.
Mrs Davies said: “We don’t know how the auction is going to go but it was so kind of the person who gave this to us.
“I think all of the items we have for sale are amazing and I’m hoping to try and bid on a few of them myself.
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“Some of the items are gorgeous and then we have some quirky items like a cockerel snuffbox which is just so cute.”
Once the £100,000 target has been reached, the St Margaret’s Place bungalow will be given a complete overhaul.
This will include widening doors, making entrances suitable for wheelchair uses and installing accessible bathrooms.
The items will be sold at Taylor’s Auction Rooms on Brent Avenue, Montrose from 10am this Saturday.
They can be viewed at the auction rooms from 10am to 6pm on Friday or online at taylors-auctions.com, where bids can also be placed.
