Colourful kingfisher statues from Cotswolds art trails raise £60,000

The nature-inspired sculpture trail ran across the Cotswolds throughout the spring and summer

A collection of kingfisher sculptures has raised £60,000 at an auction in Gloucestershire.

The 22 sculptures are all individually painted by different artists and have been on display along walking arts trails in the Cotswolds and Wiltshire.

The money raised by the auction in Cheltenham will go towards funding youth projects teaching rural skills.

"We're really pleased, it went well with loads of public engagement, " said James Webb the project's lead.

No two sculptures are the same and each carry the signature style of their artist

The two trails were inspired by the River Severn and the River Thames.

"As we came out of lockdown it was something safe for people to do as we got used to going out and about again," explained Mr Webb.

"There was a real blend of local residents and visitors to the Cotswolds who engaged in the trails and visited the kingfishers.

Proceeds from the auction will help young people experience rural skills like dry stone walling

The funds will go towards engaging young people with rural skills, such as dry stone walling, and the countryside.

"We are hoping to fund taster experiences to enable young people to take part in dry stone walling, coppicing, hedging and even stone carving," Mr Webb added.

"Getting the chance to learn these sorts of skills is not easy and for some of them it might end up being the start of a new career."