A LAST call for artists has been made ahead of a major sale in aid of refugees living in rural Hampshire.

The Rural Refugee Network (RRN) will hold an art sale at Bedales on March 4 with the support of the school’s John Badley Foundation Emergency Refugee Fund.

Proceeds will help the RRN to provide refugees with language lessons, employment training and accommodation.

It will also bolster the JBF fund that provides bursaries to young refugees, enabling them attend Bedales Senior and Prep Schools.

Professional artists have until this Sunday, December 31, to submit work for the sale with paintings and sculpture both welcome.

Artists will receive 50 per cent of the sale price – or can donate more if desired – with proceeds being split between the RRN and the JBF Emergency Refugee Fund.

Organisers will also hold a competition for schools in the new year for budding young artists to display their own work alongside the professionals.

“I don’t think anybody needs reminding of the dreadful events of the last few years and the huge number of displaced people that are now in need of our support,” said Andy Crowe, RRN Trustee and curator of the exhibition.

“If every rural community can make a small contribution, we can together help rebuild the lives of people who have lost everything, including family and friends.

“We and the families we assist are enormously grateful for the kindness and help we have received from Petersfield and the surrounding areas.”

Head of Bedales Will Goldsmith added: “We are delighted to host the Art Sale with the RRN to raise awareness and funds to provide much needed local support for displaced families.

“The Art Sale is a wonderful opportunity to promote artistic talent to fundraise to provide help for families and a stable education for young people who have been forced out of their countries.”

For more details visit https://www.bedales.org.uk/news/major-new-art-sale-announced or email [email protected]