MORE than 300 lots – from 19th century silverware to iconic Ercol furniture from the 1960s – will go under the hammer of celebrity auctioneer Jonathan Pratt.

A regular on BBC’s Bargain Hunt, Jonathan, who lives at Steep, with his wife and four children, will preside over what promises to be a fast-paced and entertaining charity event this Saturday.

East Meon Village Hall will be transformed into a saleroom for the Sale of the Centuries, which will feature antiques and collectibles gathered from generous residents.

These include china, glass, silver, jewellery, pictures, furniture, textiles and rugs, retro items and more. They can be viewed from 6-9pm on Friday, and on the day itself, before the sale at 6pm.

Money raised will be shared between the Peterfield-based hospice charity The Rosemary Foundation, which provides palliative care and support for people in their own homes, and the historic All Saints Church at East Meon.

Jonathan said:?“I’m delighted to be selling so many wonderful lots at the auction, knowing that all the proceeds will benefit local charities.

“People have been incredibly generous in donating an impressive range of items, and with no buyer’s premium this really is the chance for people to bid, and, quite possibly, bag a bargain.”

As the managing director of Bellman’s Auctioneers in Wisborough Green, West Sussex, he has been advising the enthusiastic team of volunteers on the value of all the donated items.

A pizza van and bar will be installed for the event, and a glass of wine is included in the price of the £2 catalogue.

It may still not be too late to donate items for the auction at the weekend.

Contact Hazel Rendle on 01730 823598 or Susie Best on 01730 823269.

Also visit www.eastmeon.org.uk for more information, and www.bellmans.co.uk