Gloucester Business Improvement District is inviting the Gloucestershire business community to a rare, and exciting, opportunity to obtain one of 12 unique and vibrant sculptures and be the envy of their peers in their upcoming auction!

Standing at 6ft tall, the individually decorated sculptures that were part of the city's much-loved and imaginative Runaway Reindeer Trail last year, organised by Gloucester Business Improvement District, will go under the hammer to raise vital funds for 12 deserving local charities in an exclusive auction.

These enchanting sculptures, adorned with captivating artwork from local and regional artists such as Russell Haines, Jussara Nazare, Luna Lotus, Ben Ashworth, and Candice Fox, delighted locals and visitors alike as they dotted the cityscape.

They have come out to play several times since they were first commissioned in 2021, including the most recent festivities, which attracted families from across the county.

Each reindeer featured 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. Positioned strategically at prominent landmarks, these reindeer became cherished symbols of the festive season.

The exclusive auction will take place on Thursday, April 11, from 7pm to 9pm at Gloucester Brewery's Warehouse 4, with businesses invited to attend in person or to submit their bids privately prior to the event.

Emily Gibbon, manager at Gloucester BID, said: "We are excited to see our wonderful reindeer find their forever homes within the business community of Gloucestershire and be able to help support many local charities.

"We had a lot of fun with the festive trail, as did the local community, and we look forward to seeing where they will call home. This project is a wonderful opportunity for businesses to support the community as well as having a piece of Gloucester history to show off and be an intriguing talking point for them with clients."

Lydia Hartley, artist for the 'Glendale' reindeer, and who will be attending the auction, said: "As a local Gloucester-based artist, it was such an honour to be able to design and bring my reindeer to life, from sketch to directly drawing onto it. The inspiration for my design came from my love of birds combined with The Twelve Days of Christmas, and I tried to include as many birds as possible from the song!

"Being able to see the project from the beginning to end and be there when 'Glendale' is auctioned off for local charities is amazing. I can't wait!"

The auction promises to be an evening of excitement, camaraderie, and goodwill as businesses vie for the chance to bid for one of these unique works of art.

Join us at Gloucester Brewery's Warehouse 4 for an unforgettable evening in support of our community and bid for your favourite reindeer.

For more information about the auction and to book your tickets, click here. Find out more about each of the reindeer and the artists, click here.

If you would like to submit a bid prior to the event, contact Claire Knight, marketing & business engagement lead at Gloucester BID via marketing@gloucesterbid.org.uk