A MAJOR auction of promises will be staged tomorrow night at York’s Guildhall as part of a joint venture between two city festivals.

The York Festival of Food & Drink and the York 50+Festival are behind the plans for a candlelit three-course dinner with wine, followed by an auction of 37 promises ranging from Egyptian healing to a quad-bike challenge.

Sue Lister, co-ordinator of the festival for the over-50s, said the event would be the festival’s first major fundraiser for the York Older People’s Assembly.

Hosted by Elly Fiorentini, of BBC Radio York, the auction would offer bargains including huge discounts at Specsavers, sides of salmon, champagne, cream teas and guided walks, theatre tickets, makeovers and lingerie.

Sue said: “There will also be umpteen desirable items, including a knife set and a laminator, studio glass and children’s story books.

“Also on offer is a free studio portrait session, swimming lessons and having your feet nibbled by fish, not to mention a visit to the hearing dogs for deaf people training centre at Bielby. It’s all there waiting for your bid.”

Sue said it was hoped to raise sufficient money for the assembly to continue presenting the festival and information fair as well as bi-monthly public meetings with topical speakers, distributing 4,000 quarterly newsletters and speaking up for issues of concern to older people.

Tickets for the dinner, costing £40, are still available and can be bought by phoning 01904 466687, by going to yorkfoodfestival.com or from the Food & Drink Festival’s information point in St Sampson’s Square.

Sue said the York 50+Festival, which starts on Saturday and will run until October 2, will feature over 90 events including a chiropractic spinal check and a chance to work with the Alexander Technique on posture and movement at the Brunswick Nursery in Bishopthorpe.

“A sociable time will be had by all, whether it’s plunging into pools, bouncing aerobically about, bowling on green carpets, engaging in Tai Chi, cycling with Sustrans, getting into classic yoga poses or just generally keeping fit,” she said.