A COLOURFUL collection of arty hares pulled in a ‘hopping’ £225,000 as they went under the hammer at a glitzy event.

Crowds of buyers assembled to make their bid for the impressive Hares About Town sculptures, which have raised cash for Havens Hospices.

The bright artwork had been popping up around Southend’s iconic spaces over the summer as part of the event.

The auction collected £225,931 on Tuesday at Garons Park, Southend, with £447,000 being raised in total.

Lit by glittering chandeliers, the keen bidders quickly stood and raised their cards to compete and secure their favourite hare.

Among the dignitaries were Southend Tory MPs James Duddridge and Sir David Amess, as well as Southend’s mayor Margaret Borton. Mr Duddridge posted on Twitter: “Fantastic. Well done team Hares.”

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The spectacular was hosted by celebrity auctioneer Charles Hanson and radio presenter Sue Harrison.

Louise Gloyne, Director of the Capital Appeal for the new Fair Havens, said: “The atmosphere was electric! You could really sense the anticipation as each hare was introduced. To own such a stunning piece is incredibly exciting and emotions were certainly running high. The money raised for Havens Hospices is staggering. We are delighted by the way people have thrown their support behind the trail and the auction. We are simply overwhelmed.

“Every pound donated really is appreciated by everyone at Havens Hospices. Our income was affected through the pandemic, but our free, specialist care continued. The money raised from Hares About Town helps us start to recover, securing the future of hospice care for our community.

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“The care of Havens Hospices is completely free of charge, for their patients and their families. This is only possible because of people making donations and supporting project like Hares About Town. The kindness shown to the Hares About Town, and to the charity, means so much to us all.”

An event spokesman said: “No one could have failed to notice the bright and impressive hare sculptures that popped up around Southend’s iconic spaces this summer, but a nail-biting charity auction saw businesses and members of the public bid, barter and haggle in a desperate attempt to be the proud owner of one of these unique and historical works of art!

Echo:

“The turn-out was tremendous; proving just how coveted the sculptures have become. Each unique design leaves a lasting legacy in the town and the lucky new owners were thrilled to know that not only do they own an important part of the town’s history, but that they have helped raise vital funds for Havens Hospices.”