Two 18th-century Bermuda cedar chests are among the highlights of the Bermuda National Trust’s auction today.

Dozens of bargain hunters have flocked to the Botanical Gardens over the past two days to cast their eyes over items up for grabs at the annual event.

William Zuill, executive director of the trust, identified the cedar chests, donated by a Bermuda family, as one of the highlights of the auction.

A BNT spokesman added that the chests “are fine examples of the high standards of workmanship of Bermudian cabinetmakers”.

He said: “The chests are in excellent condition and in one case, still have the staple hinges which were typical of the original chests. The larger chest dates back to the 1790s and the earlier Chippendale chest is a fine example of Bermudian cabinetwork.”

The auction also features other Bermuda cedar antiques, including a tea table with a scalloped curtain and two rocking chairs.

There is also a wide selection of mahogany antique furniture, including a tilt-top breakfast table and a Victorian four-poster bed.

A Charles Lloyd Tucker pen and ink drawing of a fishing boat at Front Street is another highlight and two Chris Marson watercolours are also up for grabs.

The BNT added: “A sterling silver tea urn from 1890 is in excellent condition, and there is also a full set of Royal Worcester Beaufort bone china.

“There are at least three antique dining tables and there is also an excellent set of six English Rosewood dining chairs.”

On Thursday and yesterday, the Trust hosted a jumble sale featuring jewellery and housewares, as well as more than 3,000 items for the home.

Mr Zuill said: “We are excited about the event and really thrilled at the number of people who have already come by.”

The auction will start at 10am today. The Trust advised it will go ahead “rain, blow or shine”.

• For more information, call 236-6483 or visit www.bnt.bm