CELEBRITY Martin Clunes is auctioning off a walk-on part on the popular TV show, Doc Martin, in a bid to raise money for a local hospice.
Weldmar Hospicecare bosses had to make the decision to cancel the charity's summer fete fundraiser, which usually take place in September, for the second consecutive year due to the pandemic.
Celebrity guest Martin Clunes has been a regular visitor in the past, not only posing for hundreds of photos with visitors, but also taking the time to visit every patient in the hospice.
However, the hospice said Martin Clunes will still be donating a walk-on part on his popular ITV show, Doc Martin, on one of their online Silent Auction lots.
A spokesman for Weldmar Hospicecare said: "Sadly, we recently had to take the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 Summer Fete due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, Martin has been very generous and ensured that we can still run the auction to raise funds, with some additional treats thrown in!
"Our huge thanks goes to Martin Clunes for donating this wonderful experience for Weldmar Hospicecare supporters. It will enable us to raise vital funds to continue providing specialist end of life care in Dorset."
There will be two opportunities for people interested in bidding for the part to secure the experience – one for an individual, and one for a couple - which are both being auctioned on eBay until Sunday, September 19.
The experience will take place in the picturesque fishing village of Port Isaac in Cornwall and the highest bidders' day will start backstage where they have the opportunity to see the costume trailers, hair and makeup.
After seeing up close the set of Doc Martin, which includes the pharmacy and well known doctors surgery, the winners will have an opportunity to see the cast of Doc Martin shooting their scenes before taking to stage and starring in the background of one of the scenes, which will air on TV later in the year.
The winner will also be provided with the chance to meet the star of the show, Martin Clunes, and complete their day with a photograph to remember.
Winners can then look forward to spotting themselves on ITV when Doc Martin airs again later in 2022.
The Doc Martin actor and his wife have lived near Beaminster for the past two decades. The couple bought their own farm in 2007, which is home to many animals including horses, Shetland ponies, dogs, Dexter cattle, sheep and hens.
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