The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum are delighted to be among the beneficiaries of an exciting auction of stained glass, held recently in the National Arboretum's Great Oak Hall at the Forestry Commission-managed site - with its beautiful natural light and the inspiring backdrop of Westonbirt’s magnificent trees.
Thirty three students, some complete beginners, from Bristol Adult Learning, Filton College, Stroud College and Under the Edge Arts at Wotton-under-Edge, designed and made panels, based on the theme of “Where I Live”. All the designs were stunning and different – two of the top sellers were “The Tyndale Monument at North Nibley” by Jill Hendy and “Sardines” by Margaret Stobart.
Each area held an exhibition, ending with a thrilling auction, where Antiques Roadshow expert Philip Taubenheim, of Wotton Auction Rooms, took his gavel up to the balcony in the Great Oak Hall and raised almost £5000 from the enthusiastic audience below. A fantastic achievement in these difficult times, and a sure sign that people know real talent when they see it.
The proceeds are being split between Children’s Hospice South West, Cotswold Care Hospice, St Peter’s Hospice, Horsfall House and the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum. All the charities are full of praise for the organisers, Ruth Adams, Caroline Pederick and Scott Bryce, and it’s clear that these generous donations will really make a difference to local people.
Much of the materials used were generously donated by Creative Glass, Warm Glass and English Antique Glass.
ENDS
For further information please contact Angela Russell-Taylor, Exhibitions and Hire Co-ordinator, Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury GL8 8QS
greatoakhall@fowa.org.uk Tel: 01454 238 123
Notes to Editors
1 Images available of the exhibits and of the cheque presentations
2 The Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum registered charity was established in 1985 and supports the Forestry Commission in managing The National Arboretum through the funding of projects and by direct volunteer assistance in many areas of activity.
www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt