• Swindon & Wiltshire Culture
• Thursday September 5 2024
• Author Name: Peter Davison

Chance to win your own genuine Morph in charity auction

An eight-inch statue of one of Morph, one of the first creations by Bristol-based animation studio Aardman will go under the hammer in Clevedon next week to raise funds for Bristol charity St Peter’s Hospice.

It is hoped that the model of the terracotta-skinned comedic figure – a staple of children’s television shows from the 1970s until the present day – will raise hundreds of pounds towards the running costs of the hospice, which costs tens of thousands of pounds a day to run.

Donated by Aardman co-founder and creative director Peter Lord, the modelling clay figure – along with a signed letter from the animator – will go into the Autumn Specialist Sale next Thursday, September 12 at Clevedon Salesrooms.

The letter of authentication reads: “This is a genuine hand-made MORPH. I know, because I made it myself!!” The letter also has a doodle of Morph’s face and a further comment which reads: “He’s made of modelling clay. Sometimes they last for YEARS, but the material can crack when it dries up. Peter L.”

The auction house says the figure is currently in “good undamaged condition” and has set an estimate of £200 to £300, although the hammer price could be much higher. Fans can bid online or in person.

A little piece of Bristol history

Morph, by Peter Lord

Sally McCleary, St Peter’s Hospice e-commerce manager, said: “It is an honour to have this item donated by Peter Lord, along with a personal letter, to raise money for our Hospice.

“Receiving a special item like this is so wonderful and we are hopeful that it will draw attention from collectors and Aardman enthusiasts.

“We know that previous Morphs, sold with animation stills and letters, have achieved up to £800 so we’re hoping for a great amount to go towards patient care at our Hospice and in the community.

“Morph is such a recognisable and iconic character, the new owner will be lucky to have a little piece of Bristol history on their shelf!”

Morph was one of Aardman Animation’s first creations, first appearing on screen in 1977. He made his debut in the BBC children’s programme Take Hart, alongside artist and presenter Tony Hart.

Now with a loyal base of nostalgic fans, mischievous Morph has a growing audience of children who follow his adventures on YouTube and Sky Kids.

Funds raised at the auction will go to St Peter’s Hospice which provides holistic support to patients, covering the physical, psychological, social and spiritual issues that can arise as a result of serious, incurable illness.

All care is provided free of charge, but the Hospice relies on gifts in wills, donations, fundraising and its shops to deliver services. It costs around £27,000 a day to provide that care.