Auction at the Community of the Resurrection in Mirfield (Gallery)
A desk featured in the 1939 film Goodnight Mr Chips to be auctioned at the Community of the Resurrection in Mirfield.
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A community of monks is planning another auction to raise money for church improvements.

The Community of the Resurrection in Mirfield has undergone a £2.6 million renovation programme in recent years.

But there are £70,000-worth of finishing touches still to go.

Over the last two years the community has held two high-profile auctions, raising £120,000 towards renovation costs.

Items under the hammer have been donated by benefactors and have also come from the community’s own collection

In November last year jewels and a letter from George Prince Regent sold for a cool £30,000. The items are now on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

Now the community is planning a third auction, to take place at the church on March 29.

So far there is nothing to match the stunning jewellery, but there are rare items which should spark a bidding war.

Star lots include a desk which came from the school where the 1939 classic film Goodbye Mr Chips was filmed, a Georgian Silver bowl by Royal goldsmiths Rundell, Bridge and Rundell and a silver home communion set.

Those items could make thousands of pounds, but there are smaller lots too such as a Hornby Dublo train set still in its original box.

There is also a sword from the days of the Raj and collectable coins, stamps and rare first edition books.

Fr John Gribben, who has organised all three auctions, said there was something for everyone.

“If you have a passion there will be something to satisfy you,” he said.

Fr John, whose Belfast-based auctioneer brother George will again take the auction, said the proceeds would be used to help complete restoration works.

A modern new church has been created, but cash is still needed for two permanent altars and a reconciliation chapel, a private area for consultations.

Fr John said he hoped the auction total would reach £70,000 but added: “So far we have nothing like the magnificent piece of jewellery from last year, but you never know. There is still three months to go.”

The auction will be held on Saturday March 29 at 2pm.

For more information or to donate please contact Fr John on 01924 483319 or visit www.mirfieldcommunity.org.uk/auction2014