Northern Ireland

Elmer elephants go up for auction in aid of Northern Ireland Hospice

Lauren Doherty and Shirley Oguz from the Northern Ireland Hospice. Picture by Hugh Russell.
Lauren Doherty and Shirley Oguz from the Northern Ireland Hospice. Picture by Hugh Russell. Lauren Doherty and Shirley Oguz from the Northern Ireland Hospice. Picture by Hugh Russell.

Thirty-five brightly decorated elephant sculptures went under the hammer in Belfast last night in aid of the Northern Ireland Hospice.

The Elmer sculptures, which were on display around Belfast city centre during the summer, before a final farewell event at Antrim Castle Gardens, were last night hoping to raise much-needed funds for the good cause.

Many of the large sculptures pay tribute to the history, spirit, and cultural life of Belfast city, from the linen industry to CS Lewis, Titanic, and even a Game of Thrones design.

Last night, bidding was due to take place at Crumlin Road Gaol, or online via Wilsons Auctions.

Heather Weir, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Hospice, said: "Following the enormously popular success of Elmer’s Big Belfast Trail, now we want each of our beautiful Elmer sculptures to go to a good home.

"Even more importantly, we also want our beloved Elmers to raise the maximum amount of funding for Northern Ireland Hospice," she said.