You may remember that earlier in the year we shared the story of the GoHerdwick Calvert Trust Art Trail – 60 life-sized fibreglass models of Herwick ewes grazing out along the 555 Bus Route from Kendal to Keswick. The realisation of this inspiring project has certainly given locals and visitors to the area amusement and delight over the summer months.
As winter and the colder weather approaches, it was time to bring the flamboyant flock in from pasture and on to life in new homes. Bidders came from far and near to a sell-out auction at Low Wood Bay for a glittering dinner event that would decide the destiny of these ovine originals.
Low Wood Bay has played host to two of the sheep – Wanda, sponsored by Stagecoach and Burly, sponsored by Burlington Slate – and they have been greatly admired by visitors to the area and became part of the English Lakes family for a short summer season.
Wanda sat proudly at the front of Low Wood Bay. Designed by Marty Strutt and sponsored by Stagecoach[/caption]
Burly greeted hotel guests at the back of Low Wood Bay. He was designed by Lionel Playford and sponsored by Burlington Slate Ltd.[/caption]
The auction was held to support local charity, the Lake District Calvert Trust, with the model sheep sold off individually to the highest bidders. Two hundred and fifty people attended the event and a staggering £245,000 was raised on the night. The hammer came down at £3,600 for Wanda and Burly realised a healthy £5,500. The highest individual bid waws £20,000 for Parker, designed by Mandy Allan and sponsored by Lake District National Parks. All monies raised will go towards the £1.3 million renovation of a Calvert Trust site in Keswick and will provide essential rehabilitation for stroke victims and those who have suffered brain injuries.
Nevil Jeffery, the general manager at Low Wood Bay Resort Hotel & Marina, said,
English Lakes is extremely proud to be a supporter of Lake District Calvert Trust. This has been a highly innovative and exciting fundraising project to mark its 40th anniversary. We’ve loved being involved.
