A team offered €14,000 for the privilege' of carrying the statue of Sta Marija in Sunday evening's procession in Mgarr (Malta).

Bids were received by the parish priest in a traditional auction-like event held in the shadow of the church at the stroke of Noon on Sunday.

The amount is the same as last year's, which was a record. 

A portion of the funds will go to charity and the rest for maintenance of the church and the organisation of the feast.  

The tradition dates back to 1923, when feast participants were asked to contribute to cover a deficit in the previous year's feast.

People who do not form part of the winning group will still be allowed to help carry the statue in part of the procession.

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