Over the summer, the streets and parks of Chelmsford have been transformed into an outdoor gallery by colourful giant bee sculptures on the Buzz in the City art trail. 

Thousands of people have admired them - they have been turning heads and raising smiles across the city since 5th July until the trail closes on 9th September.

Each sculpture has been individually designed and hand-painted by a talented artist for Farleigh Hospice. The charity provides compassionate hospice care to adults with a life-limiting illness and their families across mid Essex and also offers information and support to bereaved children and adults. It makes no charge for any of these much-needed services.

On the evening of Tuesday 17th September, Farleigh will be auctioning these fantastic works of art to raise money for local hospice care. 

For art enthusiasts, proud supporters of Farleigh or anyone wanting to own something truly unique for their own home or business, this is the chance to bid for a sculpture that’s had the whole city buzzing.

The auction is taking place at the Channels Estate and is hosted by popular auctioneer and television antiques expert, James Lewis of Bamfords Auctioneers. Bidding will start at £2,500, with every penny raised going directly to Farleigh Hospice.

Pauline Harvey-Jones, Commercial Director at Farleigh Hospice, said, “If you would like to attend the auction, you can request an invitation. Seats are limited for this very special, one-off event, so please contact us without delay.  

“The evening will begin at 6pm with drinks and canapes and the chance to view the bees before taking your seat at 7pm when the bidding will begin!  

“Why not take a walk through the city to choose your favourite sculpture before the auction itself? Or you could come to our Farewell Weekend on 13th and 14th September to see the bees all together for one last time in the gardens of Farleigh Hospice.

“We hope you can join us at the auction, ready to bid for a unique work of art and help Farleigh to raise much-needed funds for local hospice care.”

For more information for the auction, go to www.buzzinthecity.co.uk/auction or call 01245 457411.