A NEW kind of sandbag is accessorising Bournemouth beach after a pair of artists sculpted it to launch a charity event.

Sand sculptors Mark Anderson and David Hicks, who co-founded Weymouth’s Sandworld, created a handbag shaped sand sculpture to help raise awareness of autism and the Bags by the Beach event taking place at Aruba this October.

The fundraiser has been organised by Autism Wessex and will give guests the chance to purchase designer handbags and receive pampering treatments.

Becky Chalk, community and events fundraiser, said: “We wanted to launch this event in a fun and fitting way, and thought a sand sculpture would be perfect. We approached Sandworld and were delighted with their positive response to get involved and help us raise awareness of autism whilst letting people know all about our Bags by the Beach event.”

She added: “We have hosted a handbag auction for several consecutive years and decided this year to make a few changes to appeal to an even wider audience. The event will be a chance to catch up with friends and family in a comfortable, relaxed, beach side venue with the opportunity to grab a designer handbag, browse the stalls or relax and have a pampering treatment.”

The Daily Echo is once again media sponsor and Williams Thompson Solicitors LLP and Basepoint Bournemouth will be match funding the event.

Suzanne Kadziola, practice manager and partner of the firm, said: “Our relationship with Autism Wessex has been a great success over the years and we very much look forward to getting involved in Bags by the Beach this year.

“We have always been impressed with the charity’s creative fundraising ideas and event management, meaning we always feel valued and that we are getting value for money in return. The partnership is very successful and we always enjoy seeing the events come to life for the benefit of our regional autism community. Please come along and join in the fun for a good cause.”

Tickets costs £10 and include a drink on arrival plus entry into a seaside draw for the chance to win a bottle of bubbly. Book online via autismwessex.org.uk or call Becky Chalk on 01202 703198.