A crate of rare beer with a rock music pedigree is set to go under the hammer, offering a potential lifeline for a wildlife charity in desperate need of funds.
The Folly Wildlife Rescue, located near Tunbridge Wells in Kent, has been at the forefront of rescuing and rehabilitating injured, orphaned, and distressed wild animals for over 30 years. The charity treats more than 3,500 animals annually, recently faced closure. An emergency appeal was launched to raise essential funds.
However, there is now a glimmer of hope, thanks to the generosity of Sandra Beck, widow of late rock guitarist Jeff Beck, who lived nearby the rescue. Beck has donated a unique item to be auctioned in support of the charity: a 12-bottle case of Old Stinkhorn Organic Ale, a rare beer gifted to her late husband by none other than former Beatle, Sir Paul McCartney.
The beer, brewed in small batches by McCartney’s company MPL Communications, is named after the eponymous fungus often found at hop-picking time. It has become a bit of a collectors’ item, with McCartney reportedly giving bottles to close friends as a special gift. Jeff Beck’s case of the ale is believed to be one of the last in existence.
The crate of Old Stinkhorn Ale, which has remained unopened, will be offered as two lots at the charity auction. Each lot will feature a set of six bottles, with an estimated value of £150 to £250 per lot. The auction will take place on December 9, 2024, as part of a Wine, Whisky & Spirits sale.
“This is an extraordinary and highly collectible item with a truly special rock ‘n’ roll connection, and we’re hopeful it will attract bidders who want to support our cause,” said Stuart Palmer, Head of Wine, Whisky & Spirits at Hansons Auctioneers. “The funds raised will go directly towards keeping The Folly Wildlife Rescue operations running and ensuring that they can continue helping wildlife in need.”
The auction will be available online, with bids accepted via HansonsLive.co.uk and The-Saleroom.com. Prospective bidders are encouraged to register in advance to ensure they can place bids in the sale.
For those interested in placing advance or telephone bids, arrangements can be made by contacting Hansons Auctioneers at [email protected] or by calling 01283 733988
“The animals and the work we do here are at the heart of everything,” said Chandler. “We are incredibly grateful for Sandra Beck’s support and for the generosity of those who choose to bid on this remarkable item.”
If the auction proves successful, it could provide the vital funds needed to ensure that the charity can continue its invaluable work in rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife for many years to come.
Auction Information
Auction date | 9th December 2024 @ 2pm
Location | Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
View catalogue | Click here
Bids can be placed in advance of the auction, or during the sale days, at online bidding platforms: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com – you must register to bid on the platforms
Advance/telephone bids can also be arranged.
All enquiries: [email protected] | 01283 733988 / 07794 952290
