Joanne Freeman’s aim to raise £1,000 for the hospice that cared for her late husband, John, has been far exceeded thanks to an auction of his artworks.
Prior to John’s death in November 2021, the couple wanted to do something to raise money for Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger.
Read: Auction in memory of local artist aims to raise funds for St John’s Hospice
John and Joanne wanted to show their thanks to the hospice’s nurses and staff and had discussed the idea of an art auction to raise £1,000 for the charity.
“My late husband John was so grateful to the hospice staff,” said Joanne.
“They looked after him with such care and kindness in his final days – and showed me so much compassion and support throughout. I know he was keen to see the proceeds of his artwork go to supporting the team there.”
John’s watercolours and sketches feature local views, as well as stunning scenes from holidays to Norfolk, Devon, Italy and France. They went under the hammer thanks to volunteer auctioneer, Jeremy May, who had been John’s best friend since they were two years old.
The auction took place at the Scrum Bar at Bedford Blues’ Goldington Road ground on 18 June and the event raised over £8,000 for St John’s.
“All the paintings sold and for sums far beyond what I imagined,” said Joanne.
“I am so grateful to everyone who helped out and attended on the day and also to those who couldn’t make it in person but supported us from afar.”
The day significantly exceeded Joanne’s expectations with the auction and raffle smashing the original target of £1,000.
“£8,325 is an incredible sum of money that will hopefully help the nurses perform their vital work and care for those who so desperately need it. It isn’t just those who are ill that receive support, but their family members and loved ones too,” said Joanne.
“John is the one person who we do need to thank, as without his talent there would have been no art auction.”
