Last Christmas, colourful reindeer captured the hearts of families and shoppers as they brightened Gloucester's streets. Now they're being auctioned off for charity.
On Thursday, April 11 2024, from 7pm to 9pm, Gloucester Business Improvement District will host the auction at Gloucester Brewery's Warehouse 4, to auction off all of the 12 six-foot reindeer that were part of Gloucester's Runaway Reindeer Trail.
Each characterful reindeer features designs inspired by Gloucester's rich heritage and landscape, drawing from beloved tales like Beatrix Potter's The Tailor of Gloucester, the flowing River Severn and the city's iconic Cherry and Whites.
They also give local and regional artists the chance to shine with names such as Russell Haines, Jussara Nazare, Luna Lotus, Ben Ashworth, and Candice Fox painting the colourful designs.
The auction will see the customised reindeer find new
homes within the local business community, with all proceeds benefiting 12 deserving local charities.
The charities involved include Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, Hollie Gazzard Trust, Sunflower Suicide Support, Gloucestershire Young Carers, The Nelson Trust, Scoo-B-Doo, Gloucestershire Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre and Gloucestershire Deaf Association.
Emily Gibbon, manager at Gloucester BID, said: 'We are thrilled to invite the business community of Gloucestershire to join us in supporting these vital local causes. It's a wonderful opportunity to give back to our community while celebrating the creativity and spirit that makes Gloucester so special.'
Rachael Howells, team leader at Gloucestershire Rape & Sexual Abuse Centre, said: 'We're over the moon to share that we've been selected as one of the 12 charities to benefit from Gloucester BID's Reindeer Auction. Money raised will be put towards supporting survivors of sexual violence across the county.'
Fundraising manager at Gloucestershire Deaf Association, Sally Gillespie, said: 'Gloucestershire Deaf Association is delighted to be involved as one of the 12 chosen charities. Support from Gloucester BID and Gloucester Brewery is very much appreciated as our charity supports people from across the county to live confidently with their deafness and hearing loss. We are really excited about the auction and event.'
To find out more information about the auction and to book your free tickets, visit gloucesterbid.eventcube.
For further details of the reindeer and their artists, visit gloucesterbid.uk.
