AN AUCTION organised by Sidmouth Twinning Circle has raised more than �1,300 to entertain visitors from Le Locle this autumn.

AN AUCTION organised by Sidmouth Twinning Circle has raised more than �1,300 to entertain visitors from Le Locle this autumn.

"We had about 60-70 people at the auction on Friday and there was virtually nothing left at the end," said Barbara Poole, treasurer.

A new garage door fetched �200, while a signed football used by the Grecian's during its match securing promotion to League One, raised �50.

Landrover's driving experience raised lots of bids, ably dealt with by auctioneer Len Bull.

"One couple from Norfolk and their sister from East Devon were extremely generous, bidding for a lot of stuff, and a couple from Farway bought far more than they anticipated and had to go home for their horsebox," said Barbara, who thanked all those who gave promises and lots for the auction.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Sidmouth's twinning with Le Locle in Switzerland, and the group is hosting 24 visitors from there in October.

Money raised at the auction will go towards providing outings and dinners.

At the close of the auction, Councillor Peter Sullivan, chairman of Sidmouth Town Council, presented the Twinning Circle with a cheque for a �2,000 grant towards the costs of the celebrations.