Wilsons Auctions help raise thousands for Air Ambulance NI

Not the usual auction hours for Wilsons Auctions’ Auctioneer Richard McFetridge on Saturday 4th June as he took to the floor at Ellie’s Red Tie Ball in aid of Air Ambulance NI

Ellie Smyth, 11, from Garvagh, alongside mum Caroline and brother Harry, 13, were the driving forces behind last Saturday’s Ellie’s Red Tie Ball in aid of Air Ambulance NI.

The event, which took place at Portrush’s Royal Court Hotel, was in held in memory of Ellie’s father, Peter Smyth, who died three years ago.

Wilsons Auctions was honoured to be able to support and get behind this charity event. Auction items were listed on wilsonsauctions.com, allowing the donated charity Lots to receive extra coverage prior to the night of the event.

18 Lots were offered on the night of the event and with over 170 guests in attendance the auction raised an amazing £8695. Contributing to the overall fundraising sum, the night went on to raise over £12,000.

Ellie’s Red Tie Ball was supported by other local businesses, who pledged prizes to the charity auction. Peter’s brother, Alaistair Smyth, was MC and the Goodfellas band played at the event.

Richard McFetridge, Plant, Machinery and Commercial Manager at Wilsons Auctions said, ‘A great night was had by all. Credit to Ellie and the Smyth Family for putting together such a great event – Peter and I were good friends before his passing - he would have been very proud.

‘A well-conducted auction can be great entertainment at events like these and it really encourages everyone to get involved. The guests loved the evening, and I am delighted that the auction generated a large sum for the Air Ambulance.’

Reflecting on the evening, Caroline Smyth adds: “It’s thanks to the incredible support of our family, friends and local businesses that we have been able to raise over £12,000 at Ellie’s Red Tie Ball.

“Both Ellie and Harry are delighted to further donate to Air Ambulance who have helped us so much as a family over the past three years and we would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the evening.”

Caroline, Harry and Ellie are ambassadors for Air Ambulance NI and continue to volunteer at local events and fundraisers. In 2019, Harry raised £14,000 via ‘Harry’s Run’ – a 12km charity run for Air Ambulance - and Harry was subsequently nominated for an Outstanding Young Person’s Award. Sister, Ellie, has just been recognised at the Local Women Awards, being shortlisted as Inspirational Young Person.

For further information on Air Ambulance NI, see www.airambulanceni.org

Photos: Steve Devlin at North Coast Photography