LIGHTHOUSE model maker Jonathan Griffiths is putting the finishing touches to a very special creation set to raise hundreds of pounds for a Welsh charity.
Jonathan’s latest model – Tudor – will be auctioned off in April to raise money for Cancer Research Wales after Jonathan’s close family friend, Quirine Robbins-Charlton, died of the disease.
Jonathan, from Barry, started building his first lighthouse - L'Espoir - in June when Quirine, 29, was diagnosed with bowel cancer.
Jonathan, 49, said: "Quirine’s news was such a shock, and I wanted to do something to help.
“Lighthouses have a real symbolic and spiritual nature and I thought Quirine could follow L’Espoir’s creation and watch it being built in her honour."
L’Espoir, meaning hope, was completed in July, and Jonathan was so inspired he continued to build more models.
Sadly Quirine died in January just after getting married at Christmas. Another of Jonathan’s friends has since been diagnosed with cancer as well.
Jonathan said: "I really wanted to raise awareness of this most deadly of diseases and thought of creating a brand new model to auction off for Cancer Research Wales.
"The Tudor itself is not a replica of any lighthouse but rather an inspiration that I have had in my head for months. I wanted to incorporate a Victorian feel to it by using red earthenware clay to produce the red brick effect."
Jonathan is hoping to raise £400 with the auction which will be held on e-bay.
Deputy charity director for fundraising for Cancer Research Wales, Liz Andrews, said: "We really appreciate the work that Jonathan is doing. The lighthouses he has created look amazing and all the money he raises will be spent on pioneering research projects taking place here in Wales."
To find out more about how you can support Jonathan’s cause visit Facebook group Lighthouses in the making or call Liz Andrews on 029 2031 6976.
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