Yorkshire Post Christmas auction: Get bidding on a slice of luxury

From a private wine tasting experience in a Grade-II listed Greek Palladian mansion to the chance to take the helm as Business Editor of the Yorkshire Post for the day, today we are unveiling the second ten lots in our Christmas auction in aid of Yorkshire-based Support Dogs.

VIEW AND BID ON THIS WEEK’S LOTS NOW

Hundreds of pounds have already been pledged in the first week of the auction, for prizes including tea at the Ritz with broadcaster Angela Rippon, to a year’s supply of dog food from sponsor Wagg Dog Food, but we think these next lots, open today, will get you rushing to bid.

All proceeds from the auction go to Support Dogs, which provides specialist dogs for people with disabilities. We’re aiming to raise up to £20,000 to help pay for the training of an assistance dog for a Yorkshire family.

Yesterday we told the story of 21-year-old Amy Williams, who is about to begin training with seizure alert dog Stanley. Dogs like Stanley are trained to recognise the signs of an oncoming epileptic seizure up to 50 minutes before they strike.

We’ve also told the story of seven-year-old Cohen from Kilnhurst, who has “come to life” since autism assistance dog Azerley joined his family.

In the coming weeks we’ll be sharing more about the amazing work of Support Dogs, who also train disability assistance dogs.

Those wishing to get a taste of the training Support Dogs offers can bid for a private training session with their dog with the charity’s chief executive, Rita Howson. This masterclass truly is a ‘money-can’t-buy’ experience, as the charity only trains dogs for its three assistance programmes.

The Yorkshire Post’s Business Editor Bernard Ginns is once again offering his seat to the highest bidder, and those wanting a piece of luxury can bid on a chauffeur-driven tour of the Yorkshire Dales. You and your guest will taken on a two-hour drive through the countryside in two classic sports cars.

If fine food and wine is more your thing, bid for a behind the scenes tour of Whitakers Chocolates factory in Skipton, followed by lunch for four people at Bistro Des Amis.

There’s also a fine dining and wine tasting experience at Dine at The Mansion, a Grade-II listed building set among 700 acres of parkland in Leeds.

All of our auction lots make wonderful Christmas gifts, and vouchers can be provided, but those wishing to give something traditional to a loved one can bid on a indulgence hamper from Lewis and Cooper.The Northallerton fine food merchant has specially picked some of its best products, and is even including the secret recipe for its Yorkshire brown sauce.

If it’s entertaining the children that you’re after, bid for family animal encounter at Flamingoland, or eight seats on the circle front row at Harrogate Theatre’s Aladdin Pantomime, which comes with a chance to meet the cast.

If you’re looking treat a bigger bunch, Doncaster Racecourse has provided a corporate box for up to 24 guest with a champagne reception.

While if you’re buying for just one person - or indulging yourself - then a personal shopping experience with stylist Liz Clothier is a must-have. Spend the day with Liz in York, Harrogate or Leeds, and she’ll show you how to dress with confidence.

Bidding is now open on these lots, but only until 5pm on Friday, so get your bid in quick so not to miss out.

Simply Visit www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/appeal to bid, and keep up-to-speed with what’s on offer on twitter @yorkshirepost #YPxmasauction and follow our Facebook page.

Bidding closes at 5pm on Friday. Next Saturday another 10 lots will be unveiled. Donate at www.supportdogs.org.uk/donate or Text DOGY15 £5 to 70070 to donate £5.

You can send cheques payable to Support Dogs to Support Dogs, 21 Jessops Riverside, Brightside Lane, Sheffield, S9 2RX. VIEW AND BID ON THIS WEEK’S LOTS NOW