Gay singer auctioned for HIV charity

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a pink background.

An erotic Tracey Emin print and a night out with gay star George Michael were two of the auction lots which helped to raise over £230,000 at the Lighthouse Gala Auction last night.

The auction, sponsored by Barclays, was attended by Tracey, Kenny and other celebrity supporters

including Penny Smith, Richard Arnold, Lee Otway and Lord Brockett.

The auction, now in its tenth year, was held at Christie’s and saw a fantastic array of luxury items, bespoke packages and ‘money can’t buy’ experiences snapped up by eager bidders. All money raised goes to Terrence Higgins Trust, the UK’s leading HIV and sexual health charity.

Lots included the Tracey Emin print, entitled ‘Arse Fucking’ which raised £17,000,dinner and clubbing with George Michael and Kenny Goss prompted some frantic bidding which raised £10,000, a Patrick Lichfield image, his last signed work, was printed especially for Terrence Higgins Trust and went for £19,000., a walk on part in the TV programme Nip/Tuck was secured for £5,500.

Debbie Holmes, Director of Fundraising at Terrence Higgins Trust said “We’re thrilled that the auction was a huge success. We couldn’t do it without the support of our sponsor, the generosity of those who donated lots and the enthusiasm of our guests who pushed their bids up and up. £230,000 is a fantastic amount which will go on our vital work, supporting people living with, and affected by HIV and AIDS.”