Auction raises £50,000 for Plymouth charities

The auction of the Pelican Children’s Centre in Keyham has raised £50,000 for Plymouth-based charities, with funds set to be distributed in the new year.

The property, located at 66 Saltash Road, went up for auction on 3 December with a guide price of £180,000.

By the time the hammer fell, competitive bidding had pushed the final sale price to £227,000. The surplus above the reserve will be donated to support local causes.

Angela Carter, Treasurer and Secretary of the centre’s trustees, said: “I watched the action in the playground! It was really different watching an auction with a vested interest in it. It was really exciting! It was great to see how the auctioneer worked to get the best out of the bidders.”

The trustees aim to focus on organisations supporting children, families, and the community, with each trustee nominating charities for consideration.

Angela added: “We want to try and support as many charities and non-profits as possible, so we’re looking to see who can benefit the most. Then we can cheer up some people in January!”

Auctioneer Olivia Boulting from Auction House South West, who oversaw the sale, said: “It was fantastic to sell the Saltash Road property for such a great sum. It was a privilege to be entrusted with the responsibility of its sale and for getting the best price possible so that the trustees can benefit the local community.”

The donations will bring some much-needed cheer to local charities in January.