The Poor Farmers Auction has become a hardy annual in Ardara – and not even the Covid-19 pandemic could stop its success. Organisers moved online for the 2020 version and raised a whopping €31,220 for local charities, with a specific focus again this year on mental health services.
Downstrands Counselling Service, the Charlie Bennett Fund and Pieta House will all benefit from the proceeds of the event, which is usually held in Teagues Bar, Ardara. A vast array of items are auctioned off to the highest bidders. Over the years, anything and everything have gone under the gavel. The auction was held online through the Brockagh Mart and bids came in from all across the world.
Auctioneers Malachy and Daniel could hardly keep up with the fast pace of the bids. Some of the big items sold including a perth ewe lamb (pictured above), which went for a cool €910, and a lorry load of stone fetched €530.
This was the 15th annual auction and it was certainly one with a difference with Covid guidelines having to be adhered to. John Breslin of Teagues Bar has extended his thanks to the Poor Farmers Auction committee, who have organised the event since 2005, and the communities of Ardara, Glenties, Narin and beyond for their generosity.
Over the years, the Poor Farmers Auction has raised €376,749.