SUPPORTERS of Bridport’s Literary and Scientific Institute are holding a charity auction to help raise funds to refurbish and re-open the Georgian building in East Street.

Busby Auctioneers has offered to run a charity auction called Loot from the Loft on March 22.

This won’t be a specialist sale and organisers are looking for donations of everything from household goods and furniture to collectables.

Project co-ordinator Crystal Johnson said: “Of course if you do have the odd antique or high value item that you’d like to give, that could make a huge difference.

“Having said that, success will be about quantity as much as quality of the items we have to sell so if you’ve been thinking of having a clear out here’s your opportunity.”

Volunteers have already managed to find nearly all the funding for the £2.4 million restoration of the institute but only if they can raise £200,000 from the community.

The Grade II listed institute has been empty – and deteriorating – since 1997 when Dorset County Council moved the library to South Street.

Lots for the auction are being accepted until the end of February and they can be dropped off at Busby Salerooms at The Old Hemp Store, North Mills, call 01308 420100 or email info@busby.co.uk