The line ‘More going on than your average store’ used in Mole Valley Farmers’ (www.molevalleyfarmers.com) quirky promotional film recently made at the Holsworthy store certainly proved true on the afternoon of Sunday 4th December, when a charity auction and donation saw £14,622 raised for Cancer Research UK.

Supporters were welcomed by a number of pink wrapped round bales (which had been donated by Holsworthy customer, Charlie Prideaux); one of many lots generously donated by customers and suppliers. The auction took place in the Holsworthy branch’s feedstore, which had been transformed for the evening by the Mole Valley Farmers team. Tarka Radio compered the event, keeping visitors entertained throughout.

James Morrish, of Kivells Auctioneers led proceedings with his own unique style, being described as “the best auctioneer in the county” by Mole Valley Farmers’ Chief Executive, Andrew Jackson. James managed to coax £4,162 worth of bids from the audience, even generously securing a £50 bid for a bottle of whisky presented to him by Mole Valley Farmers as a token of thanks.

The auction was the brainchild of Charlie Prideaux, who “just wanted to give something back” after surviving a near death experience three years ago. Charlie bought pink wrap from Mole Valley Farmers at the beginning of the season and then came up with the great idea of using pink bales as the centre piece of a charity auction. The Mole Valley Farmers team at Holsworthy worked with him. Charlie explained: “I have been genuinely touched by how much support the auction received. My phone hasn’t stopped ringing for weeks with questions and messages of support, but after seeing all this today, it has been worth it”.

As visitors entered they enjoyed either a glass of pink wine, kindly donated by neighbouring store, Waitrose or mulled Cider from Thatchers. There was also a hog roast, which was very well received.

Mr Jackson presented a cheque for £10,460 to Sam Williams of Cancer Research UK – this was money raised from the sales of pink bale wrap through the 2016 season. Andrew thanked everyone for supporting the event and the Mole Valley Farmers team for all their work.

Ed McCullar, store manager at Holsworthy said: “Various suppliers and local businesses donated generously so thanks to all. I am delighted that we have been able boost the funds for Cancer Research UK. Amazingly the total is still rising as online donations continue to come in from people who couldn’t be here on the night.”

All moneys raised are being donated to Cancer Research UK, supporting breast cancer research. Sam Williams was delighted to accept the cheque: “We are extremely grateful to the staff and customers of Mole Valley Farmers for their fantastic support of our vital research into breast cancer. Cancer Research UK is tackling cancer on all fronts, from groundbreaking lab research to lifesaving clinical trials in hospitals across the South West region. We have made enormous progress in the fight against the disease and this has only been possible thanks to the dedication and commitment of our supporters, without whom we would not be able to fund outstanding scientists, doctors and nurses.”

If you feel inspired, you can still donate via: www.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/molevalleyfarmers