AN AUCTION will be held to raise vital funds to maintain the Cooper Gallery collection of art.

The gallery’s trustees have organised the evening which will see works from local artists auctioned, to raise money to restore and maintain the collection which consists of roughly 400 pieces dating back to the 18th century.

Barnsley bard Ian McMillan will host the auction alongside experienced auctioneer Pierre Maciag of Wilbys - and Ian said he has even been practising his auctioneer voice as he prepares to take bids for a couple of the pieces.

Ian said: “The art up for sale shows the width and depth of art being practised in Barnsley, and this auction is also a chance to celebrate Barnsley’s artistic community.”

The auction comprises work by local artists, including Terry Brookes, Graham Ibbeson and Ashley Jackson, and the evening will also feature music from the Wentworth String Quartet as well as free food and drink.

Trustee and former councillor Linda Burgess said: “It’s a real specialist job to restore and maintain these works.

“And it’s a wonderful opportunity for people to own a unique piece of art.”

There will also be a raffle with prizes including tour vouchers and food hampers.

The auction will take place on Wednesday June 5 at 6.30pm.

The catalogue of works up for auction can be viewed on the Cooper Gallery.

Tickets to attend the auction are £10 each and raffle tickets are £1 from the reception at the Cooper Gallery or online here.