ONE of the final chapters in the story of High Royds Hospital is being played out today as hundreds of items from the former asylum go under the hammer.

A public auction is being held at the hospital itself with everything from patient hoists, dishwashers, lawnmowers and a Dulcetto wind-up gramophone player up for grabs.

In total, there are nearly a thousand lots up for auction with every conceivable item utilised in both the running and the upkeep of the hospital appearing on the for sale list.

High Royds, which closed its doors to patients and staff on February 25, has now been earmarked as the proposed site for 560 new homes despite strong local opposition to the plans.

Today's auction begins at 10.30am at the hospital and is expected to run through until 5pm.

Other weird and wonderful lots include an Electrolux drugs fridge, Magimix meat slicer, an electronically adjustable patient couch and an insectaflash flykiller

However, more squeamish members of the public may be advised to miss lot 777, a dental suite including dental chair, drill station and compressor kit.

More useful home entertainment items include a full-size pub pool table, Rubenstein upright piano and a host of hi-fi's, televisions and videos.

All items must be paid for on sale day and removed by 3pm on Friday.