The Dolphin Discovery Trail – which was enjoyed by thousands of people during the summer months – has raised more than £80,000 for two of Guernsey’s charities.
The total money raised will be split equally between the GSPCA and Autism Guernsey with the charities planning to use the money to fund their vital services for people and animals across the island.
“From Autism Guernsey and the GSPCA a huge thanks to all that were involved and supported this amazing event“
The exact amount raised will be confirmed once the 62 dolphins that were sold at auction last night have been settled in at their new homes. The GSPCA is offering to deliver the dolphins to their new owners for a minimum donation of £30 each.
The auction itself raised more than £40,000 in one night at the Peninsula Hotel.
BBC Guernsey’s John Randall had the gavel and took bids for each of the 62 statues with most selling for more than their starting price of £500.
The highest bid of the evening was £1,600 for Fairytale, sponsored by TISE and painted by Dom Ogier-Keltie. Another standout was Hermia, sponsored by Herm Island and decorated by India Waterhouse, which sold for £1,250.
Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager and lead organiser of the Dolphin Discovery Trail, is thrilled with the amount of money they have raised.
“We are absolutely blown away by the generosity and enthusiasm of everyone involved. From the sponsors and artists to the volunteers and bidders, this event has shown the very best of Guernsey’s community spirit.
“Huge thanks to the Peninsula Hotel, Artex, Guernsey Freemasons, and all who helped make the night so special.
“With the GSPCA Biggest Build in our history and working 24/7 helping animals and our community these funds will help make a real difference and we are already looking to the future for the next big event and trail.”
Andrew Sparks, Director of Autism Guernsey, said they are grateful to everyone who has support the event which will help fund their vital services.
“It’s been a privilege to be part of such a creative and impactful initiative. The funds raised will make a real difference to the lives of those we support. Thank you to everyone who contributed, especially Bailiwick Express for their help with the website and promotion.”
The 62 statues that made up the Dolphin Discovery Trail were sponsored by local businesses or organisations, and then decorated by artists, creatives, school children, community groups, and others.
They were on display across Guernsey – with one in Herm – between May and the end of August.
All Island Media – which owns Bailiwick Express – was proud to be media sponsor of the Dolphin Discovery Trail, which entertained thousands of people.
More than 1,000 people used the turf hunt app to take part with Owen Williams winning the prize for that. His name was announced during last night’s auction, along with the winners of the raffle which also contributed funds to the overall total to be shared between the GSPCA and Autism Guernsey.
Anyone who bought a dolphin can now collect theirs from the Peninsula Hotel.
Steve Byrne will be on-site from 10:00 to assist.
For more information or to donate, visit: