Yorkshire Post Christmas auction: Reward yourself with VIP event

Today, The Yorkshire Post unveils the first batch of lots in our Christmas charity auction in aid of Support Dogs who provide specialist dogs for people with a range of disabilities.

And as well as afternoon tea and a garden tour at Goldsborough Hall, North Yorkshire, afternoon tea for two at the Ritz with Angela Rippon, who is patron of Sheffield-based Support Dogs, up for grabs.

Or try your luck with a champagne dine-in-style package for four at Napoleons Casinos.

VIEW AND BID ON THIS WEEK’S LOTS

You could even play weatherman for the day with ITV Calendar weatherman Jon Mitchell. He is offering the opportunity for two people to have a short weather “masterclass” at the ITV offices.

You will look at the Met Office weather charts and be shown how the professionals forecast the weather. The highest bidder will then be shown the weather map in the studio and be offered the opportunity to have a go at a weather report.

The Yorkshire Post’s Christmas Appeal and auction is hoping to raise enough money to fund the training of a support dog for a Yorkshire family - which costs around £18,000.

The difference these dogs can make is truly amazing. Last week we told how one, Azerley, an autism assistance dog who has been living with the Hadfield family in South Yorkshire, has transformed their lives.

Before the dog came to live with the family in Kilnhurst, seven-year-old Cohen lived in his own world, did not speak, was anxious and unable to even make eye contact with those around him.

Since Azerley joined the family, Cohen has learnt to play and uses his imagination, his confidence has grown, and perhaps the biggest change of all, he has began to speak and interact.

Azerley has also helped Cohen to develop a daily routine, and as well as being his protector when he is out of the house, he does everyday tasks such as getting Cohen’s school uniform out on a morning.

We cannot raise this money without your help - so get bidding and help change lives.

And if you want to give the auction lot as a Christmas present we can provide a voucher so you can package your gift.

The auction is this year sponsored by leading pet food manufacturer Wagg Foods, from North Yorkshire, and they are also providing the prize of a year’s supply of food and treats.

There is also a pre-show supper at Bibis, in Leeds, plus tickets to Opera North up for grabs and two tickets for any Huddersfield Town home game plus access to the business lounge.

Dress to impress this winter with a £250 voucher and personal shopping experience from Cordings or head off to any European destination such as Menorca, Rome or Paris with Jet2 and start in style in the VIP lounge at Leeds-Bradford Airport.

And after all that Christmas indulgence what is better than a healthy 2016 with a regular Riverford Organic Farms veg box and joining one of their farm walks when they start next Spring.

Yorkshire Post Managing Editor Nicola Furbisher said: “There are some great lots in this year’s auction so start bidding and help raise money for this really worthwhile cause. Having a support dog can make a huge difference to someone’s life.”

VIEW AND BID ON THIS WEEK’S LOTS