SINGAPORE: Seven Christmas trees are up for auction in this year's Raffles Hotel Annual Gala Christmas Tree Dinner and Auction.

The event, now into its 18th year takes place on Thursday with President S R Nathan and Mrs Nathan gracing it.

Besides getting the Christmas tree, winning bidders will also take home other goodies, like hotel stays, spa treatments and vintage wines.

Each tree is expected to go for about S$12,000.

Proceeds will go to five beneficiaries under the Community Chest. They are Bright Hill Evergreen Home, SCAS Goodwill Rehabilitation and Occupational Workshop, Care Corner Counselling Centre, Grace Orchard School, and Austism Children Centre (Clementi). - CNA/vm