Celebrities including Leigh Francis (AKA Keith Lemon), Jodie Whittaker and Joe Lycett have joined more than 160 artists to create unique 'Samarivan' artworks for a fundraising auction in aid of North Herts & Stevenage Samaritans.

The collection of campervan images has been coordinated by renowned North Herts artist Sarah Graham, and features work from 80 local artists, including Sarah's wonderful effort (below).

Hitchin-born celebrities including former Blue Peter presenter Valerie Singleton have both contributed artworks, along with former pop star and Codicote resident Kim Wilde.

Other celebrities taking part include Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson, comedians Richard Herring and Phil Jupitus.

Samarivans creator Sarah Graham, who was born in Hitchin and has a studio in Letchworth, wanted to raise money for the charity which has 'provided a lifeline' to her at various points in her life as she has struggled with the impact of bipolar disorder.

Talented Sarah told Nub News: "I wanted to find a creative way to fundraise and get all of Hitchin involved.

"These brilliant local artists have given their time for free, and their work is spectacular. I'm so grateful and proud.

"Now all we need is the bids!"  

Big-hearted Sarah also ran a workshop with Year 6 children at Hitchin's Oughton Primary & Nursery School, and the Samarivans produced by the children are currently available to view at Brookers in Bucklersbury of Market Place. 

Kim Wilde's awesome creative effort for the Samarivans charity art auction

North Herts & Stevenage Samaritans is run by a team of 100+ volunteers, who commit to weekly shifts, including night shifts to support a 24/7 service.

The volunteers spent almost 6,000 hours on the phone last year and carried out vital awareness-raising work in the local community, including outreach in schools and colleges, and with Lister Hospital and Network Rail.

The branch is entirely self-funded, depending on donations from organisations and individuals to continue its work.

Branch Director Ilsa Hawtin told Nub News: "We really hope the people of Hitchin and across Hertfordshire will get behind the Samarivans campaign, choosing their favourite artworks to bid on.

"It's a wonderful opportunity to get your hands on an amazing, unique piece of art for your home or office wall, while helping us at the same time."  

Hitchinite and Blue Peter presenter Valerie Singleton has also contributed artwork to the worthy cause.

Some very well-known local artists are taking part including James Willis, whose Samarivan features a depiction of Sarah Graham in front of St Mary's Church. 

Another contributor is Katie Hounsome, who is known for creating the posters that celebrate the sights and highlights of Hitchin that are a familiar sight around town. Her Samarivan is titled 'FR55DOM' and was hand-drawn on a digital art programme. Other Hitchin artists include Roz Down and Cathy Smale.  

Hitchin MP Bim Afolami also lent his support to the campaign, creating his own Samarivan, joining Timmy Mallett, Hi-de-Hi! favourite Sue Pollard, and many other familiar faces from stage and screen.   

The Samarivans campaign has been supported by the council and several businesses have sponsored the project, including Lucky Penny Weddings, Anglian County Inns, Norgans, NFU Mutual (Hertford & North Herts Agency), Mostly Comedy and Stories Matter.

Arkley Fine Art is providing exhibition space free of charge in their support of the project. 

Anybody wishing to make a bid should visit the Samarivans collection online at: https://sarahgraham.info/samarivans for more information.