By Eddie Atkinson

A fundraising exhibition featuring casts of major sporting stars’ hands has been unveiled.

Award-winning sculptor Louise Giblin opened her exhibition ‘Lend A Hand’ in the crypt at Rochester Cathedral last Thursday (July 18).

The exhibit will support the baby loss charity Abigail’s Footsteps and features the life-size hand casts of twenty-five famous sportsmen and women, including football World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst, ski jumper Eddie 'The Eagle' Edwards, and Dancing on Ice star Jayne Torvill.

The sculptor said: “Baby loss is not often spoken about but is far more prevalent than is generally appreciated.

“Many of the famous sportspeople I asked to model readily offered to help because unfortunately this has touched someone in their lives and they know how valuable the support offered by charities like Abigail’s Footsteps is to bereaved parents and their families.”

David Ward, chief executive and founder of Abigail’s Footsteps, said: “We were delighted to see so many Abigail’s Footsteps supporters at the launch.”

Guests at the morning event included Paralympian Louise Sugden, rugby player Zainab Alema, and charity vice president Cheryl Baker.

The money raised by online bids will be put towards ‘Abigail’s Garden’, a bereavement garden opening later this year at Medway Maritime Hospital.

The exhibition will run until August 31 and bids can be placed until September 14.

Abigail’s Footsteps has released a podcast speaking with families who have bravely stepped forward to tell their stories. Click here to listen.

A Journey with Abigail’s Footsteps is an IM Listening production.