weekend at the annual auction to raise $30,000 in aid of preserving the Island's national heritage.

A Bermuda cedar sideboard, cello and framed antique prints have already been donated and will go on auction this coming Saturday in the Botanical Gardens.

All of the money raised will go towards supporting the work of the Bermuda National Trust, and people are promised some bargains.

Auction chairman Hugh Davidson said: "We are beginning to receive an eclectic mix of items from generous donors in the community.

"This is just the beginning, as most people will be bringing their contributions for sale on Monday (today) and Tuesday.'' Wielding the hammer on the big day will be two experienced auctioneers who have donated their professional services to the trust.

Well-known local auctioneer Judiann Smith has conducted the trusts's sale for many years and this year she will be joined by a well-known colleague from London, James Rylands.

Mrs. Smith has been auctioneering for more than 20 years, for much of that as a partner in her own business. While living in London she honed her skills by taking courses with Christie's international auction house.

Mr. Rylands, who is married to Bermudian Jennifer Cox, is a consultant to Sotheby's, having worked for the company as a director for a number of years, and is also a regular on the British TV show Antiques Roadshow.

Mr. Rylands said: "This year, once again, we will have a tremendously strong team in charge and we feel honoured that they are donating their considerable talents to the trust.'' In addition to the auction, for bargain-hunters on a budget, Bermuda's biggest jumble sale will be part of the trust's fundraising activities.

The sale is this Thursday and Friday and Mr. Davidson has urged members of the public to clean out their closets and donate items to the trust.

The auction takes place at the Jack King Building in the Botanical Gardens from 10 a.m. on Saturday. The auction preview and jumble sale takes place on the Thursday and Friday before.

The trust can receive donations and items for the auction and sale at the beginning of this week.

For further information, call the trust on 236-6483.