A VIP trip to the House of Commons, a signed Boro shirt and tickets to see Elton John in concert are among the lots up for grabs at a primary school's auction of promises.

Preston Primary School, in Eaglescliffe, is holding the auction on Friday, May 19, to raise money to furnish its new sports and drama hall.

Work is to start on building the hall in two weeks, but the school needs to raise thousands of pounds for equipment.

It is intended to open the hall to community sport and drama groups when the building is completed in the autumn.

Stockton South MP Dari Taylor visited the school on Friday to hand over her contribution to the auction, which is being organised by the school's parent teacher association.

Mrs Taylor donated two first-class rail tickets to London, plus a guided tour of the Commons.

She said: "I am absolutely delighted to support Preston Primary's auction of promises.

"This is an excellent school, which is brilliantly led by its headteacher and supported by a pro-active body of governors and parents.

"I know that the auction will raise a significant amount for the school's new sports hall, and I look forward to being invited back to see it in use."

One of the most valuable items on sale is a limited edition print by artist Peter Smith, donated by publisher Washington Green, and framed free by Yarm Gallery.

Preston's deputy headteacher, Jean Coulthard, said: "Apart from goods that have been promised, a lot of parents have also generously offered their time to do people's gardens and that kind of thing."

The auction will be held at Preston and Eaglescliffe Social Club, Station Road, Eaglescliffe, starting at 7.30pm.

Those unable to attend on the night can obtain a catalogue from the school on (01642) 784735 and make sealed bids.