Bronze sculpture of runner Joss Naylor MBE auctioned

Expertly crafted by renowned Cumbrian sculptor Paul Bainbridge in 2008, the statue commemorates Joss Naylor's feat of running 70 Lake District fells on his 70th birthday.

One of two created, the first now proudly resides in The Beacon Museum in Whitehaven, thanks to a thoughtful purchase by Copeland Council.

Mr Naylor at the new base official opening of the rescue base (Image: Adamedia)

Following the recent loss of Mr Naylor, the retained second sculpture is being offered in an auction to raise funds.

Mr Naylor held the honorary title of Vice President of the Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team, and the team's new base outside Gosforth, ceremoniously opened by him in 2018, serves as a constant reminder of his unique influence and character.

Mr Naylor with sheep sheers, ready to cut the twine (Image: Adamedia)

The charity auction has been facilitated by Mitchell's Auction Company of Cockermouth, scheduled to take place during their Antiques and Fine Art sale on September 11,12, and 13, 2024.

The official opening of the rescue base (Image: Adamedia)

Paul Bainbridge, born in Egremont, Cumbria, initially trained at Carlisle College of Art before proceeding to Hornsey College of Art.

A previous Head of Art at Hadham Hall School in Hertfordshire, Bainbridge spent a 25-year career in art education.

Transitioning to a freelance sculptor role at Madame Tussauds in 1990, he created wax sculptures of numerous famous faces for 12 years before focusing on his own sculptures from 2002, mainly centred around the human face and figure.

Elected into the Royal Society of British Sculptors in 1993, Mr Bainbridge's work is highly respected and admired.