A huddle of penguins which brightened Worcester’s streets this summer is to be auctioned to raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice. 

Forty large penguins and one baby will go under the hammer at DRPG in Hartlebury on Thursday, October 24 to find their forever homes.

Hosted by Richard ‘Hursty’ Hurst and overseen by auctioneer, Philip Serrell, funds raised will support St Richard’s care of patients with an illness that cannot be cured and their loved ones.

Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager for St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We’ve loved bringing our happy huddle to Worcester this summer and seeing local families make lasting memories with their favourite people.

“The auction is the key fundraising element of the trail for us as a charity and it’s such an exciting evening. Whether you join us in person or watch via livestream to bid from the comfort of home, you’re sure to be on the edge of your seat!

“In challenging times for many UK hospices, we’re crossing our flippers for some competitive bidding from prospective buyers to help us continue to be here for patients and their loved ones when they need us.”

The starting price for each sculpture is £3,000 with all proceeds raised supporting the hospice.

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Dale Parmenter, CEO for DRPG, said: “As a presenting partner in the great Waddle of Worcester, and longstanding supporter of St Richard’s Hospice, we’re delighted to be hosting the penguin auction here at DRPG’s studios.

“St Richard’s does so much for so many in our community.  Let’s hope these beautiful works of art raise a significant sum to support the hospice’s care of patients and families into the future.”

The great Waddle of Worcester auction is kindly sponsored by Hawksmoor Investment Management. To find out more about the event, which can be joined in person or online, visit: waddleofworcester.co.uk/events/auction/.

Over the summer, people have been travelling across Worcester to collect every penguin in an app.

Several were targeted by vandals or damaged, however, Worcestershire Ambassadors set up a fundraiser to cover any costs so it would not leave the charity out of pocket.