The waiting is nearly over and a huge auction of some 200 artworks by local artists will go under the hammer this weekend. 

The unique display of works in Stalybridge by artists whose lives have been touched by cancer was extended at the Astley Cheetham Gallery before the items are all auctioned off.

As previously reported, ‘Isolation’ is a collaboration of works by people who have been affected by cancer, either themselves or through supporting loved ones.

The idea for the exhibition initially came from Derrick Evans, who founded Cancer Warriors in Stalybridge back in 2014, with the auction being held to raise money for the charity.

The exhibition, which opened just before Christmas and is presently on show at the gallery, above Stalybridge Library, Trinity Street, is being extended until Saturday to give everyone a last chance to view items they might like to bid for at the auction on the same date.

Works that will be up for grabs include watercolours, photography, bead work and more.

Derrick said: “A lot of people have been to see the exhibition and offered to buy and reserve artworks but to make it fair we are asking everyone to come and bid on the day (this Saturday).”

The auction itself will start at noon with Derrick undertaking the duty of master of ceremonies walking around the exhibition and taking bids for each piece as they go along.

With some 200 ‘lots’ it is hoped the auction will raise a huge sum for Cancer Warriors - and will be a fitting birthday present for the charity which is celebrating its sixth birthday this year.

“People will get a nice piece of art and raise money for charity so it is a win-win for everyone,” he said.

Derek thanked the artists for donating their works to the cause, museums manager Rachel Cornes and Dukinfield/Stalybridge councillor Leanne Feeley, without whom the initiative would not have come to fruition.

The Cancer Warriors Information and Support Centre is based at its new and improved centre at 71 Melbourne Street, Stalybridge.

The centre offers support and advice for those facing cancer and those whose family and friends face the same.

For further information about the help they can provide you can visit their Facebook page, visit http://cancerwarriors.co.uk/ call 0161 338 5010 or pop into the centre.

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