A YOUNG steer bearing the name of Liverpool FC's manager has been sold to raise funds for a Herefordshire hospice.

Just days before the charismatic manager was celebrating a stoppage time winner at Crystal Palace, his namesake fetched £2,000 after going under the hammer at Hereford Livestock Market.

The steer, who was draped in two Liverpool FC scarves during the sale, was snapped up by Walterstone resident, Ian Sevenoaks, with the money being donated to Bartestree-based St Michael's Hospice.

As reported by the Hereford Times last month, the four-legged Klopp was put up for auction by owner and football fan, Tom Pearson who said the animal has had his fair share of ups and downs in recent months, a bit like his managerial counterpart, including having to be rescued by Mr Pearson after falling into the River Lugg.

Such was the interest in the sale that other generous farming families offered their own donations with a pig, ewe lamb and four miscellaneous lots helping push the amount raised for the hospice up to £2,475.

Jurgen Klopp was the final auction lot on the day. Emotions were running high in the sales ring, and auctioneer Matthew Nicholls said he was delighted to bring the hammer down on Mr Sevenoaks' generous bid.

"The atmosphere in the ring was quite special. He was a tremendous animal, a real credit to Tom and his family.

"I felt privileged to be involved with such a worthy cause. I've personally had family members who have received care in the Hospice, and I think they are incredible."

St Michael’s Community Events Manager Paddy Nugent said: "Tom had obviously spent a great deal of time to make Jurgen stand out on the day. He looked very tidy.

"We could not be more delighted with the giving spirit that we encountered at the Hereford Market. It never ceases to amaze us how generous our farming community is where the Hospice is concerned."

A Guess the Weight of the Steer competition was also held, bringing in a further £200. The correct weight was 660kg.