A pre-Christmas auction in aid of cancer charities takes place tomorrow, December 1st, at the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, Co Dublin. The organiser, Alison McCormick of Jewels for Cures, said the funds raised will benefit the Cancer Clinical Research Trust which supports a cancer research programme in St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin City University and University College Dublin.

The auction will be conducted by
Art Deco specialist Niall Mullen and features donated items including jewellery, silver, glassware, rugs, paintings and an eclectic assortment of collectibles. Highlights include a rare signed copy of My First Play by Lady Gregory; a signed copy of A Patriot's Handbook: Songs, Poems, Stories, and Speeches Celebrating the Land We Love by Caroline Kennedy (JFK's daughter); a limited edition Picasso plate; and a necklace and earrings donated by the model, Rosanna Davison.

Viewing from noon. Dublin Bus is offering a free bus connection from Dún Laoghaire Dart station, leaving at 2pm, to Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, returning to the DART station after the auction.

Next Saturday, December 7th, an Antiques Roadshow-style valuation day, in aid of the children's charity, the Jack & Jill Foundation takes place in the Ashgrove Auction Rooms, Newbridge Road, Jigginstown, Naas, Co Kildare, 2pm-5pm. The suggested contribution is €5 for one item; €10 for three.