COMEDIAN John Bishop and his wife Melanie were two of the successful bidders in an online auction that raised £7,600 for Haslemere Hares charity arts project.

Haslemere Hares - 2018 successor to last year’s Haslemere Hogs - saw local artists and schools decorating more than 100 sponsored fibreglass bunnies, which are on track to raise more than £30,000 for good causes.

To swell funds, 20 hares went to the highest bidders in a timed online auction that ended at midday on September 16.

Would-be bidders were invited to view the artworks at a special display at The Georgian Hotel the day before.

Welcoming the Bishops’ backing, project mastermind Brian Howards, said:"The new owners of the Millie Jones HARE are thrilled to be taking it home with them.

Thank you to Melanie and John Bishop for supporting this project.

“We are on cloud nine. Thank you to all the lovely bidders, the online auction has raised a total of £7,670.”

The last chance to snap up the final 17 Haslemere Hares is at the ‘Grand Finale Auction’ at Lythe Hill Hotel on Wednesday, September 26. Tickets cost £15 for welcome drinks, canapés and the auction or £40 to include dinner afterwards.

All the proceeds from ticket sales are going to Chase Shooting Stars and Stepping Stones School.

*To buy tickets email [email protected]