Sculptures from George Stubbs trail in Scunthorpe to be auctioned

Horse sculptures created to celebrate the artist George Stubbs are to be auctioned to raise money for charity.

Ten life-size statues were created for a trail in Scunthorpe and the surrounding area called Horsing Around, which marked the 300th birthday of the painter and his connection to Horkstow, where he lived.

The trail was organised by North Lincolnshire Council, and the designs involved contributions from schoolchildren and community groups.

Eight of the sculptures will be up for sale on 24 and 25 April.

Stubbs is considered one of the country’s most revered equestrian painters. He completed much of the work for his ground-breaking book, The Anatomy of the Horse, while living in Horkstow in 1766.

The Liverpool-born artist also undertook dissections and illustrated many horse carcasses in the village.

The proceeds from the online auction will be donated to the mayor of North Lincolnshire’s chosen charity, the Health Tree Foundation, which supports the Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust.

Councillor John Davison said: “These sculptures not only capture the spirit of our local heritage but also offer a unique opportunity for residents and art-lovers to own a piece of history.”

The sculptures will be available to view in person at Potters Auction Saleroom, Messingham, ahead of the auction.