The Haslemere Hogs charity’s products go to market in a grand gala auction at Sherlock Holmes creator Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s old Undershaw home next week.

West Sussex auctioneer John Nicholson will be wielding the gavel when the Hogs go under the Hammer, on Tuesday, July 4. The fun starts in Hindhead from 6pm with a hog roast, reception and viewing of the final 15 decorated hogs out of a limited edition of 60 up for grabs.

All the proceeds will go to the four nominated charities of last year’s mayor Sahran Abeysundara.

In addition to raising funds, the project has also been about generating civic pride, promoting the town and the surrounding area, and creating opportunities for local businesses to raise their profiles, while having some fun.

Mr Nicholson, of Fernhurst-based John Nicholson’s Auctioneers told The Herald: “I am really pleased to be involved in this community event and look forward to auctioning the pigs on the night.”

Brian Howard, the project organiser and another former Haslemere mayor, said: “We were delighted a number of celebrities joined in the fun and have autographed pigs inspired by them.

“We are hoping that some of the celebrities may turn up on the night for the bidding.”

BBC TV chat show host Graham Norton has autographed his lookalike porker Graham Snorton, Amanda Holden signed namesake Amanda Hogden, along with her fellow cast members in West End hit ‘Stepping Out’, Hammy Trotter was signed by Julie Walters and GruffaHog has the blessing of Gruffalo author Julia Donaldson.

The hogs have also inspired a range of merchandise for those whose pockets don’t stretch to the auction itself, including mugs, Hog Trump card games, fireside buckets and wastepaper bins, which are all available from Marley Flowers in the High Street. The Gala Finale Auction and Hog Roast starts at at Stepping Stones School, Undershaw, in Portsmouth Road, Hindhead, at 6.30pm on July 4. Tickets cost £15, including a hog roast and welcome drink Email brian@ haslemerehogs.co.uk. Proxy and phone bids can also be made.

For full details go to www.haslemerehogs.co.uk