MORE than 150 artists from across the country have supported a Hereford hospice by creating a miniature masterpiece and then donating it to a secret art auction and exhibition.

Postcards from Life hopes to raise £10,000 for Bartestree-based St Michael's Hospice by giving people the chance to bid on and buy an original artwork.

The 225 pieces can be seen online from Monday November 2 and in an exhibition at Hellens Manor in Much Marcle between November 20 - 22.

The postcards are signed only on the back, if at all, so bidders won't know the identity of the artist until after the auction ends.

Some of the secret contributors to the project include artists Chris Gollon, Jackie Morriss, Victor Tilson, Simon Dorrell, Charles MacCarthy and TV presenter and Herefordshire resident, Kate Bliss, who is a long-time hospice supporter.

"I love art, and I think the project is a fantastic idea," she said.

"For me, A-level art was a long time ago, but I still enjoy painting so decided to take up the challenge.

'It's wonderful that so many artists have contributed such a varied amount of work, and I love the way all the work is secret.

"My mum will be visiting the exhibition, so it's going to be fascinating to see if she can spot my painting."

The hospice says it is "very pleased" with the support it has received from the art community.

"As well as raising money to provide hospice services, we want the project to celebrate and promote the talent of everyone who has contributed to the project," said Paddy Nugent, community fundraising manager at St Michael's.

For more information, call 01432 851000 or visit st.michaels-hospice.org.uk