IT was party time when visitors to a town museum not only enjoyed the first full display of the Haslemere Hares, but could also drink bubbbly and watch the Royal Wedding on a giant TV.

Following their one-day exhibition in the museum grounds, many of the finished artworks sponsored by businesses, schools and individuals to raise money for a host of good causes, will go on display around the town before a grand auction of any hares not snapped up already, is held later in the year to swell the total.

Fresh from the success of Haslemere Hogs, which really did bring home the bacon in 2017, raising an impressive £35,000 for charity, its mastermind, ex-mayor Brian Howard launched his 2018 version of the charity arts project.

Souvenirs were also available to boost the fundraising effort, with postcards and mugs of each hare on sale – not to mention glitzy tiaras to wear while watching the wedding.

Delighted by the success of Haslemere Hares, which also owes much to his daughter – Marley Flowers owner Melissa King – Mr Howard said: “The businesses, artists and community enthusiasm has taken us from 60 Hogs to over 100 Hares.

“The aim is to promote our town and surrounding area, and our businesses through the arts and fun, while also helping good causes to raise funds and awareness.

“The quality of the work by the artists is wonderful and they span an age range of almost 90 years and we have done four Haslemere Hares as a family.

“Coinciding with the Royal Wedding made it a very happy mixture.”

•Mugs and postcards are on sale at Marley Flowers.