An art trail of giant hare sculptures has captured the imagination of Suffolk residents and visitors this summer, ending with a charity auction that raised more than £250,000 for St Elizabeth Hospice. The trail, called Hop to it! Suffolk 2025, featured more than 130 brightly decorated sculptures dotted across Ipswich, Beccles, Felixstowe, Lowestoft, and Woodbridge between June and August. Last night, the colourful creations went under the hammer at a packed event in Kesgrave, surpassing fundraising records from previous years and ensuring vital support for people living with progressive and life-limiting illnesses.
The auction took place at Milsoms in Kesgrave and was attended by more than 200 people.
In total, the sale raised £250,000, beating the £163,590 raised at the hospice’s last art auction in 2022.
The event was run by Clarke and Simpson and featured enthusiastic bidding from supporters.
Celia Joseph, fundraising manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, described the evening as “hare-mazing.”
She praised the community for coming together to support the hospice’s services.
The art trail was backed by East Suffolk Council, Ipswich Borough Council, and Suffolk County Council.
Artists from across the region contributed to the eye-catching designs.
Charlie Clarke, one of the successful bidders, bought the “Built on the River” sculpture.
He said the win was deeply meaningful, as his late wife Wendy had been supported by the hospice.
The funds raised will help the hospice expand services for patients and families in Suffolk.