The much-anticipated Waddle-on-Sea Grand Auction has raised an incredible £205,000 for Havens Hospices.
Held on Thursday 25 September at The Boatyard, Leigh-on-Sea, the event was a celebration of the end of the hugely successful summer art trail, which saw over 100 penguin sculptures transform the streets of Southend and Leigh-on-Sea.
The top-selling sculpture of the night was Snowflake. The small, bejewelled penguin sculpture by Havens Hospices supporter Sarah Nash sold for a huge £11,000. Sarah also donated some surprise miniature versions of her sculptures Snowflake and Daisy, which were auctioned in the room, raising a few thousand pounds in addition.
The money raised will go directly towards the charity’s expert, free care, which is facing increasing demand. Havens Hospices is an independent charity but plays a vital role in the local healthcare system, providing support that helps local babies, children, adults, and their families make the most of the time they have.
Amy Dearing, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Havens Hospices, said: “It was so lovely to see familiar faces and a few new ones joining us for this special event. Waddle-on-Sea has been a perfect example of what can be achieved when a community comes together – from the incredible artists, schools and groups who took part, visitors who explore the trail, to the Partners and Sponsors who believed in this project.
“Their support has turned an idea into a reality, taking art out of galleries and onto our streets for everyone to enjoy. Waddle-on-Sea helped bring families together, giving people reasons to explore and smile, to feel proud of Southend and to celebrate creativity – something that feels especially important right now.”
She continued: “The auction wasn’t just about finding forever homes for our penguins. The money raised will fund specialist, personalised care that only Havens Hospices can offer to families facing the toughest times of their lives. The generosity throughout the whole trail has a longer-lasting and deeply meaningful impact on our community for years to come.”
