AN artist is auctioning a beautiful ceramic sculpture to raise funds for a Worcester hospice as a thank you for the charity’s care of her late father.

William Lawrence Farquharson, known as Lol, from Worcester, became ill with methofilioa in 2015 and first attended the city's St Richard’s Day Hospice.

As his health deteriorated, the former joiner and cabinet maker was cared for in the St Richard’s In-patient Unit and was there for the last two weeks of his life. He died aged 83.

His daughter Angela Farquharson-Duffy, said: “The hospice gave us a safe haven where we were able just to spend valuable time with dad as a family and not as carers.

"The fact that we were able to stay at the hospice, too, made such a difference and we were with him all the way right to the end.

“The care and compassion from every member of the team, including volunteers, is second to none. St Richard’s cares not only for the patient but for all family members too.

"This donation of the sculpture is a small thank you and gives me some comfort in doing so.”

The Enigma sculpture stands at just over 50cm tall. She is made in black stoneware ceramic and is suitable for inside or the garden as it is completely frost proof.

Mrs Farquharson-Duffy, who lives in Wales, said: “I chose this sculpture to donate to St Richard’s because it reflects the anguish and torment that I have felt losing my father and a pain that so many other people will understand.

"It’s called Enigma because it not only portrays the emotions associated with sorrow and loss but also the contemplation of memories. Is she unhappy or just in deep contemplation, that’s the enigma and for the viewer to decide, ultimately I think she is a sign that we can find comfort in our memories of loved ones that we will never forget.”

The statue is being sold by sealed bid auction. All the proceeds will go directly to the hospice.

Bids can be placed by post or email info@farsculpt.com. There will be a reserve of £500. Closing date for bids is August 7. Images of the sculpture can be found online at www.farquharsonduffysculpture.com