A FUNDRAISING mission has smashed through its £2,000 target in response to a shocking vandalism attack which saw one of Southend’s Herd in the City elephants toppled over.
Hockley blogger Simon Harris, launched a Go Fund Me fundraising campaign on Sunday after it was revealed that one elephant – Lollie – was knocked off its stand and badly damaged over the weekend in Leigh Library Gardens.
Mr Harris was so “annoyed and upset” by the news, he immediately launched the appeal to raise additional funds for Havens Hospices – the organisers of the trail.
He set a £2,000 goal, but donations have poured in over the last three days and the total now sits at more £2,700.
Mr Harris, 39, said: “With all the kind people donating and supporting the fundraiser, it is great to see something horrible turn into something good. When I heard about this, I got really annoyed because it has spoilt the fun for people wanting to come down, see the elephants and support the fantastic charity that Havens Hospices is.
“If you attack one of the elephants, you attack Havens Hospices – which is why I felt it was important to set up the appeal to help them out. I am just so pleased to see people being so generous. A big thank you to you all.”
The 46 elephant sculptures and 72 baby elephant sculptures are set to remain in place across Southend until September 4, before they are auction off on September 26.
However, Havens believes Lollie will not make a return before the event’s conclusion due to the extent of the damage, which included a gaping hole in one of its front legs.
Vanessa Harvey, project manager for Herd in the City said: “The response from the community, including the appeal by Simon Harris, has been overwhelming. Simon also supported our Hares About Town trail in 2021 and is an advocate for causes that positively impact the community.
“We cannot thank everybody enough for their kind words and donations. Havens hospices has received over £3,600 since Sunday, including contributions from Simon’s appeal. Thanks to your generosity we can continue to care for more children, young people and adults living with incurable conditions.”
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