The Lighthouse auction last night raised an incredible £128,000 for vital services to support people living with HIV.  The event, which is in its sixth year, was held at Christie’s auction rooms in St James’.  The auction room was packed with supporters including Tracey Emin, Elizabeth Murdoch and Kirsty Young.

Highlights of the evening included ‘A day with Tracey Emin’ which raised £5,500. Tracey also bid and won a day with the Fantasy Boys. One lot, which sparked much interest, was ‘Tea at the House of Lords with Jeffrey Archer’ after his release from prison, which prompted brisk bids from the floor.  Tracey Emin narrowly lost out to Chris Drake, a property developer from Hampshire who upped the stakes to £4,500. In a magnanimous gesture he then invited Tracey Emin along, and she accepted.

John Wynne-Williams, chair of the Auction Committee says: “We’re absolutely delighted.  The evening was a stunning success and the lots this year were better than ever.  Thank you to Tracey Emin for making the evening such fun, to everyone who donated and bought lots and to Christie’s for hosting such a fabulous event.”

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Notes:

• Lighthouse is part of Terrence Higgins Trust Lighthouse and provides care and support to men, women and children affected by HIV and AIDS.
• Photographs of the event are available via Salamander photo http://homepages.nildram.co.uk/~jpb/download/THT/