AN AUCTION of promises is being staged by a York church later this month as part of a £1.2 million fundraising drive to redevelop the church and create a new church hall.

Poppleton Methodist Church is planning to lower the level of the church floor to make it fully accessible to people using wheelchairs, and replace the pews with chairs that could be moved when necessary.

It also wants to use the existing church hall as a permanent base for its community cafe and build a new church hall and meeting rooms on land at the back of the church.

The appeal total stands at more than £420,000 but now the fundraising is set for a major boost with the auction, which takes place at 8pm on Friday September 28 at the Tithe Barn in Nether Poppleton.

Scores of items have been offered by well wishers, including a Cornwall holiday break, a meal for six, a mystery tour day out, a silver plated tea service and a Staithes holiday break.

"We are confident there is something here for everyone - food, scenery, travel, leisure and art to name but a few," said organisers. adding: "Every bid will go towards our efforts to raise the money."