Artefacts auctioned as RNLI fundraiser

AN auction of artefacts and memorabilia from one of Cork’s most famous restaurants, including the Thomas Lipton Challenge Cup, will go under the hammer later this month in Kinsale, with some proceeds going towards the RNLI.

Lovetts’ restaurant in Cork city closed its doors in 2006 but the former owner, Dermod Lovett – himself a keen sailor – has decided to part with some of his treasures from the Lovett Collection while at the same time helping the RNLI.

‘Included in the sale is a magnificent tanzanite and diamond ring kindly donated by Irish-American philanthropist Loretta Brennan Glucksman,’ said Tricia Tyson, Kinsale RNLI volunteer lifeboat press officer. Other items listed include fine art and furniture, silver and fine jewellery, nautical memorabilia, bric-a-brac and vintage pub signs. Auctioneer Aidan Foley also expects a high level of interest from abroad, with many clients bidding online.

Tricia added that one of the more interesting items included in the auction will be the Thomas Lipton Challenge Cup, which was donated by the Scottish tea baron to the Royal Cape Yacht Club in 1921. 

A couple of items from the estate of actress Maureen O’Hara will also be auctioned.

The auction will take place in The Mill in Kinsale on Sunday September 16th at 2.30pm with viewings on September 15th from 11am to 7pm and from noon on the sale day.

See www.irishcountryhome.com for more.