One-off sculpture could help former Hartlepool United manager's charity break through Â£500,000 mark

Charity Finlay Cooper Fund is asking for bids for this personalised resin sculpture donated by Middlesbrough-born artist Mackenzie Thorpe.

The original artist proof of Mackenzie Thorpe’s sold-out resin sculpture ‘A Walk in the Past’ has been donated by the artist to the Finlay Cooper Fund, which was set up by Mr Cooper and his wife Julie in memory of their son.

The charity hopes to reach the £500,000 fundraising milestone through a ball being held at Wynyard Hall, in Billingham this Friday, which will include an auction featuring the rare art piece.

Colin Cooper's charity is hoping to break through the Â£500,000 mark.

The sculpture has been personalised with unique finishing touches by Middlesbrough-born Thorpe using the charity’s dragonfly emblem.

While those attending Friday’s Dragonfly Ball will have chance to bid in person for the piece, bids are also being encouraged ahead of the event.

Mr Cooper said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Mackenzie has made such a special donation to support us in our quest to reach the £500,000 mark.

“Mackenzie’s personalised finishing touches to the original sculpture make the piece a true one of a kind, so we’d encourage Mackenzie Thorpe fans and art lovers everywhere to get their bids in.”

All funds raised on the night will go towards children’s causes across Teesside and beyond.

Those not attending the Butterfly Ball can bid for the resin up to 5pm on Friday. Email [email protected] for details on how to bid.