A Didcot artist has spoken of her 'shock' after her knitted ox raised more than £2,500 for charity. 

Rachel Crook, known locally as Yarnsy, sold Tony the ox for £2,800 at the recent auction following the OxTrail art installation. 

The auction raised more than £150,000 for Sobell House Hospice.

Ms Crook explained why she decided to take part. She said: “I’ve been wanting to do something for Sobell House for some time now.

My late grandfather Tony Lyford, spent his last few days with them and I know the work they do is valued by so many.

I came across a Facebook post from BBC Radio Oxford asking for suggestions as to what they should do with their blank ox, and on a whim I suggested they give him to me to yarnbomb. 

READ MORE: Oxen sculptures auctioned off for Sobell House Hospice

Rachel Crook and Tony the ox (Image: Contributed) “The next thing I know a chap from the radio was walking up my drive with this magnificent ox in hand, much to the surprise of my family. After some careful consideration a plan formed as to how I would decorate the ox with a myriad of colourful crochet patches and piece by piece Tony came to life.”

She added: “The final bid for Tony was an amazing £2,800 and I was shocked to say the least. 

“I know Tony has now gone to his forever home and I hope his new family enjoy having him with them as much we enjoyed having him with us.”