A WORLDLY-WISE donation will help a North Yorkshire school raise funds for the bear necessities as moves for an annual auction gather pace.
Foreign secretary William Hague has donated a parliamentary bear to the auction of promises at The Allertonshire School, Northallerton, which over the years has raised more than £50,000 for equipment.
The furry friend is one of more than 100 lots due to be auctioned by the Parents, Students and Governors Association at the school at 7pm on November 28.
Other donations include a tour of Manchester United’s football stadium, a bungee jumping session and a bespoke designer prom dress.
Over the years the annual event as raised up to £6,000 per auction, which is spent on improving facilities at the school.
Last year PSGA funds bought outdoor equipment and seating for students to ensure they make the most of being outside. It has also bought Kindles for the learning resource centre and books for the Accelerated Reader programme.
Organiser Linda Maclean sends hundreds of letters to local business and national bodies asking for donations.
“People help us year in year out and we get some fantastic things,” she said. “But I was particularly pleased to hear back from our MP, Mr Hague, and from Manchester United.
“The prom dress will be a lovely prize for someone. Proms are an important part of girls’ lives nowadays and to turn up in a designer gown will be a real thrill.”
Viewing is available from 6.30pm and local auctioneer Mike Darwin will officiate
