David Beckham has become the latest celebrity to decorate gnomes for an auction to raise money for schoolchildren's gardening projects. The auction, organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), supports its Campaign for School Gardening and coincides with the charity lifting its ban on gnomes at the Chelsea Flower Show for only the second time in history.
Celebrity Gnomes on Auction
The auction features gnomes decorated by stars including Queen guitarist Sir Brian May, actresses Cate Blanchett and Dame Joanna Lumley, comedian Tom Allen, and TV gardener Alan Titchmarsh. Sir David has contributed a pair of gnomes that bear a striking resemblance to him and his wife, Victoria Beckham. One gnome sports the number '7' on its red hat, a nod to his England and Manchester United days, while the other has long brown hair reminiscent of Victoria.
Current Bidding Highlights
As of Wednesday afternoon, Sir Brian May's gnome, 'Billy Bad-Axe', which comes with a miniature guitar, leads the auction with a bid of £2,600. RHS president Keith Weed's gnome is in second place at £1,111 after he made a plea for bids at a Chelsea lunch for dignitaries on Monday. Sir David's pair of gnomes, however, could attract significant bids due to their celebrity connection.
Supporting School Gardening
All proceeds from the auction will go to the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, which helps children access gardening opportunities. The initiative allows young people to learn through growing plants, developing practical skills, confidence, and an understanding of the environment.
Sir David was also involved in the RHS and King's Foundation feature garden, the 'curious garden', designed with input from King Charles III, the former football star, and Alan Titchmarsh. The garden, designed by Frances Tophill, includes gnomes in celebration of the lifted ban, reflecting a tradition at Highgrove Garden, the King's residence in Gloucestershire, where a gnome often resides in The Stumpery.
