Celebrity doodles up for auction
Thursday 11th November 2010
A host of local, national and world class celebrities have demonstrated their artistic side by producing an amazing collection of unique bug-themed doodles to help raise vital funds for the Ulster Wildlife Trust.
Doodles by more than 50 famous names from the worlds of music, art, sport and entertainment will be entered into a three-week long charity auction on eBay beginning Sunday 14 November, just in time for the festive season.
Celebrities who have taken part include TV stars Tony Robinson and Joanna Lumley, actors Patrick Stewart and Stephanie Beacham, cartoonists Nick Park and Neil Shawcross, comedians Vic Reeves and Sean Hughes, and sporting legends Tony McCoy, Wayne McCullough and Pat Jennings.
Fans, Christmas gift shoppers and supporters will be able to bid for the chance to win their favourite celebrity doodle and help raise money for the charity’s work protecting wildlife and wild places across Northern Ireland.
Wildlife presenter, former ‘Goodies’ star and Vice President of The Wildlife Trusts, Bill Oddie, has been championing the fundraising appeal by lending his name to more than 400 letters of request and donating not one, but five of his own unique doodles.
He said: “I am delighted to lend my support and help raise money for a worthy cause. The Ulster Wildlife Trust plays a very important part in protecting Northern Ireland’s natural environment and with our local wildlife under increasing pressure, their work is more urgent now than ever before. So if you’re a fan of celebrities or local wildlife, make sure you place a bid and help make this auction a real success!”
Kelly Muldoon, Development Manager with the Ulster Wildlife Trust said: “The response has been staggering and the variety of doodles makes for a fascinating collection, with something for everyone. Many celebs have chosen to put a humorous spin on their doodle such as Tony Robinson’s Baldrick turnip beetle, while others have sent in beautiful watercolours such as Terry Nutkins’ Emperor caterpillar.”
Kelly added: “With Christmas just around the corner, the auction offers the perfect opportunity to purchase a unique gift for family or friends and what’s best of all it will actually make a real difference to local wildlife on your doorstep – a win-win situation!”
To view all the doodles and a schedule of the auction which runs on eBay until Sunday 5 December, go to www.ulsterwildlifetrust.org and click on ‘Celebrity Doodle Auction’ or call the Ulster Wildlife Trust on tel: 028 4483 0282.
Story by Ulster WT