This is your chance to own a truly unique masterpiece, taking home your very own Snook sculpture autographed by the shining stars that have performed at York Barbican.
The unique four-and-a-half-foot sculpture, named Starstruck Snook, has taken centre stage at York Barbican since the start of the Snooks Trail from 2 March and has come across many big named stars, including; comedian and actors Jack Whitehall, David Walliams and Lloyd Griffith; news reporter, Jonathan Pie (aka Tom Walker); and the band members from Scouting for Girls.
As a beacon of community and culture, Starstruck Snook is a celebration of the arts, supporting the incredible work of St. Leonard’s Hospice, and promising some starlit surprises along the way.
With nearly 30 signatures from notable stars on this special Snook sculpture, it sure will be a favourite to bidders among the 21 sculptures up for bid at the Snook charity auction taking place on Thursday 9 May 2024 at York Barbican.
Don’t miss this opportunity to own a masterpiece while making a meaningful impact. By taking home one (or two) Snook sculpture, you will not only own a unique works of art but also contribute to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in support. The event aims to raise funds for St Leonard’s Hospice, who provide life-changing support for families across York every day, and for York Creates Fund, a micro-fund that supports cultural and creative activity in the city.
You’re invited to join us for an exclusive auction experience, whether in person or via our live online stream. Secure your spot now for in person for just £5, as tickets are limited.
Bids can be made online or by attending a special charity auction:
What: Snooks Charity Auction
Date: Thursday 9 May 2024
Venue: York Barbican
Tickets for in person, £5: Book your tickets today.
Live stream: Sign up for the online auction.
The event is set to be an exciting event with our host is Derek Matthewson from TV series Bangers and Cash and presented by Mad Alice from the award-winning The Bloody Tour of York. Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity.
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
Contact: comms@makeityork.com
Pictures: can be downloaded here – Credit: York Barbican
The Starstruck Snook sculpture at York Barbican has been signed by:
Sarah Millican
Phil Wang
Simon Reeve
Lloyd Griffith
Jack Whitehall
James Martin
Jonathan Pie
Gary Davies
Sophie Ellis–Bextor
Rick Wakeman
Jon Richardson
The Hollies
Emma Kenny
Stuart Michael
Professor Brian Cox
Dawn French
Elvana
Jesse Dayton
Samantha Fish
David Walliams
Toyah
David Mahoney
Harry Redknapp
Lloyd Cole
Leigh Francis aka Keith Lemon
Scouting for Girls
Luke Whitehouse
The Commoners
York Guildhall Orchestra
About the Snooks Trail
There were 21 sculptures that made up the popular Snooks Trail, York’s first character trail across the city, running between 2 March and 25 April 2024. The Snooks were the brainchild of artist Sian Ellis, and each one of the unique four and a half foot characters, has been decorated by different talented artists to create its own identity and style. More information on the trail can be found on our website: visityork.org/snooks
About Make It York
Make It York’s purpose is to develop and promote the city and its surroundings – nationally and internationally – as a vibrant and attractive place to live, visit, study, work and do business. Its mission is to grow the economic prosperity and wider wellbeing of York and its citizens. In practice, this means delivering a range of projects and programmes based around our corporate strategic priorities. These are: City positioning and profile-raising; Ensuring an exciting city centre; Delivering the city’s ground-breaking Cultural Strategy.
About St Leonard’s Hospice
St Leonard’s Hospice is an independent charity, providing specialist palliative care, and support for local people with life-limiting illnesses. We’re dedicated to providing support tailored to the specific needs of patients, and their families and carers, with a wide range of services offered in a relaxed and friendly environment where care is taken personally.
About York Creates Fund
York Creates Fund is a micro-fund that supports cultural and creative activity in the city. The York Creates Fund will provide opportunities for local creatives to produce new work through micro-grants, commissions and competitions. The fund will be held by Make It York and administered in reference to the objectives of York’s Creative Future, the city’s Culture Strategy.

