Unique piece of art by former Wolves captain to be auctioned for Samaritans charity

The celebrities were tasked with creating a piece of art out of a basic campervan stencil drawn by a fellow artist, Sarah Graham. The designs were then donated as part of the 'Samarivans' campaign to help raise money for the charity and spread awareness of the services it provides.

Jody's design, which he titled 'Party Bus', is a refection of the former footballer's own artwork but with a "positive spin". It will be auctioned online, alongside all other Samarivans artwork, on 22nd September.

Other celebrities who showcased their artistic flair for charity included James Bay, Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson, Kim Wilde, Timmy Mallett, Su Pollard, and Valerie Singleton.

Jody, who made 237 appearances for Wolves over ten years, said: "Looking after our mental health is just as important as our physical health, although sometimes it can be overlooked.

"Samaritans is often a lifeline to so many individuals and provides invaluable support at moments of crisis.

"When I had the chance to support an amazing charity, and combine it with my love of art and campervans, it was a resounding 'yes please'.

"We never truly know what struggles those around us are dealing with, sometimes that smile can hide a million worries of what they are feeling inside, and sometimes we find this out too late to help.

"Please check out all the amazing artwork and show your support so this charity can keep helping people."

Anyone wishing to bid on the one-of-a-kind piece can find more information at https://sarahgraham.info/samarivans.

Since leaving his playing days behind, Jody has spent time creating contemporary and photorealist pieces of art.

Ilsa Hawtin, branch director at the Samaritans, North Herts and Stevenage, said: "We are so grateful to Jody for contributing to the Samarivans project. People in all different parts of the country are finding things tough right now and we are hoping this campaign will help everyone remember that Samaritans is there for them in times of crisis.

"Jody's Samarivan is wonderful, and I'm sure his many fans will be itching to bid for it. What an opportunity to own an incredible, one-off artwork while supporting a good cause."