More than HK$41,000 (US$5,265) has been raised during a charity auction for Operation Santa Claus

More than HK$41,000 (US$5,265) has been raised during a charity auction for Operation Santa Claus, the annual fundraising project organised by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK.

The event, which comprised an online bidding session and a separate on-site auction, took place at the Oolaa Petite restaurant in Wan Chai.

It was part of a special edition of the radio programme “Money Talk”, presented by Peter Lewis from RTHK.

As bidders battled for more than 20 lots of goodies, including vintage wines and hotel packages, the radio host talked to some of the supporters and beneficiaries of Operation Santa Claus who were invited to the programme.

Liza Green, head of Credit Suisse’s corporate citizenship programmes in the Asia-Pacific, said in the pre-recorded session that employees at the financial services firm had taken part in local charity work.

The company had also been a long-time supporter of Operation Santa Claus.

This year, 13 organisations, including groups that help disadvantaged children and senior citizens, were selected to benefit from the year-end campaign.

Lewis said he was delighted by the turnout at the auction, which took place at the Star Street restaurant on December 10.

“We are happy to see so many people open their wallets and donate to a very good cause,” he said.

The lots, donated by multiple companies and individuals, fetched a total of HK$41,600.

All funds raised from the auction will go to Operation Santa Claus.

Nick Holmes, who placed a bid on a batch of premium wines and won it, said he had a lot of fun, while auctioneer Brian Hodgson said he enjoyed managing the event.

“There are a lot of people who want to help charity and there is always a good atmosphere,” he said.