This month, a collection of watercolour paintings by the late John Freeman – an accomplished local artist – go under the hammer to raise vital funds for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice.
John was looked after at the local hospice before he died in November 2021 and his wife, Joanne, is holding the auction in his memory.
The watercolours and sketches feature local views, as well as stunning scenes from holidays to Norfolk, Devon, Italy and France. They will go under the hammer thanks to volunteer auctioneer, Jeremy May, who had been John’s best friend since they were two years old.
You can view all the watercolours on Joanne’s JustGiving page here.
The auction will take place on Saturday 18 June between 1pm and 5pm at the Scrum Bar at Bedford Blues Rugby Ground on Goldington Road and all proceeds will go to the hospice to provide expert and compassionate care to local people living with life-limiting conditions.
“We wanted to do something positive in John’s memory and we’re aiming to raise £5,000,” Joanne Freeman told the Bedford Independent.
“Painting was John’s hobby and he used it to relieve stress – although I’m not sure how much it helped!
“He was last able to paint during our holiday in Devon last summer. A couple of those paintings are in the auction.”
As well as the auction there will be music, a raffle and the chance to get together and remember John, particularly for those that weren’t able to attend his funeral because of Covid restrictions.
John was originally diagnosed with cancer in 2007, but following successful treatment, he was able to enjoy a good quality of life.
“A lot of people didn’t even know he was ill,” said Joanne.
“He died on his birthday aged 54. Without the staff at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, the situation would have been 10 times worse.
“John was so grateful to the staff. They looked after him with such care and kindness in his final days. I know he was keen to see the proceeds of his artwork go to supporting the team there.
“A big thank you to everyone who has already bought tickets, to those who have donated raffle prizes, and for the generous donations people have made.”
Nick Burr, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to Joanne for choosing to support us. All money raised will help us continue to be there when it matters for families going through the most difficult times of their lives.”
Entry to the auction is £5 with all proceeds going to the charity.
Tickets can be purchased via Joanne’s Just Giving page and please state how many tickets you would like along with your name.
Sealed bids should be made to Jeremy May by calling 07739382072 or via email jeremymay@btinternet.com by midnight on Friday 17 June.
