The buzz is already building as two iconic guitars are set to headline a charitable auction for a cause rooted in gold-medal glory and a legacy of inspiration. Ed Sheeran and Van Morrison guitars to be auctioned as part of the Mary Peters Trust’s annual “Sport Inspires” festive lunch will shine a spotlight on the powerful blend of music and sport in uplifting the next generation.
These guitars—one bearing the pre-autographed signature of Sir Van Morrison, and the other to be inscribed by Ed Sheeran himself with a personal message post-auction—will serve as symbols of generosity and passion for helping young athletes in Northern Ireland achieve their dreams.
A Star-Studded Auction for a Worthy Cause
Set to take place both online and in person, this highly anticipated auction will be held during the Mary Peters Trust’s festive lunch on November 21. The event has become a staple in Northern Ireland’s social and sporting calendar, attracting businesses, sports organisations, celebrities, and philanthropists all united in one cause: to support emerging sporting talent. This year, the auction has been elevated by the inclusion of two of the music world’s most celebrated names.
Sir Van Morrison, the Belfast-born legend whose music has left an indelible mark on global culture, has generously pre-signed one of his guitars, instantly turning it into a prized collector’s item. Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran, the globally adored singer-songwriter, has contributed a Lowden guitar—crafted by the Northern Irish guitar maker of the same name—that he will autograph with a personal message for the winning bidder after the auction, adding a unique touch of intimacy and authenticity.
Read : Ed Sheeran to Be First International Artist to Perform in Bhutan
In addition to the guitars, other exceptional items will also be going under the gavel, including artwork from celebrated local painter Neil Shawcross and a floral watercolour composition by actress-turned-artist Jane Seymour. Best known for her roles in the James Bond franchise and the TV drama Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, Seymour has now established herself as a respected and skilled watercolourist. Her contribution adds a rich layer of cultural artistry to an event already brimming with significance.
The Mary Peters Trust: A Legacy of Empowerment
Established in 1975, the Mary Peters Trust was born from the Olympic triumph of Lady Mary Peters, who secured a gold medal in the pentathlon at the 1972 Munich Games. Her victory not only inspired a nation but also planted the seed of a trust dedicated to helping young athletes—both able-bodied and disabled—pursue their sporting ambitions regardless of financial or physical limitations.
Read : Guns with Which Napoleon Planned to Kill Himself Sell for Over $1.83 Million in France
Over the decades, the trust has become a beacon of hope and empowerment, offering funding, mentorship, and development opportunities for Northern Ireland’s rising stars in sport. The organisation’s work has supported thousands of athletes, many of whom have gone on to represent their country at the Commonwealth Games, Olympic Games, and other global competitions.
This year’s fundraiser will not only celebrate the remarkable legacy of the trust but also look forward to future milestones such as the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Australia, and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The event aims to galvanise support for those who dream of standing on podiums and making their country proud, following in the footsteps of Lady Peters herself.
Generosity and Celebration at the Heart of the Event
As anticipation builds for the November 21 event, Lady Mary Peters has expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support and generosity of all contributors. She acknowledged the invaluable efforts of those involved in organising the auction, including board member Julie Hastings, who played a key role in securing the Van Morrison guitar and the Jane Seymour artwork.
“It’s early stages and plans are still being created, so expect a sprinkling of surprises on Friday November 21,” Lady Peters noted, hinting at an exciting and memorable afternoon. Her comments reflect the vibrant spirit of the event, which is designed not just as a fundraiser but also as a celebration of community, talent, and the holiday season.
The “Sport Inspires” festive lunch is expected to draw a diverse crowd from across the business, arts, and sporting worlds. Attendees will enjoy a special afternoon filled with goodwill, entertainment, and the opportunity to bid on exclusive items that represent the intersection of culture, celebrity, and charity.
The auction items are expected to attract bidders from around the globe, thanks to the fame of the contributing artists and the ever-growing reputation of the Mary Peters Trust. The combination of rare memorabilia and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact ensures the auction will be a standout event.
An Inspiring Fusion of Music and Sport
What makes this auction truly unique is the way it brings together the worlds of music, visual art, and sport. Ed Sheeran and Van Morrison may come from different musical generations, but both share a deep connection to Northern Ireland and a sincere desire to give back. Their guitars are more than just instruments—they are symbols of solidarity, inspiration, and belief in the power of sport to transform lives.
The addition of visual artworks, especially from figures like Jane Seymour and Neil Shawcross, further enhances the artistic depth of the event. These pieces offer a different form of storytelling—one that complements the physical expression of sport and the emotional resonance of music.
As bidders vie for these treasures, they are not only acquiring valuable collectibles but also investing in the dreams and futures of Northern Ireland’s young athletes. It is this confluence of purpose and passion that defines the Mary Peters Trust and sets this auction apart from other charitable events.
Looking to the Future: Commonwealth and Olympic Dreams
As the trust reflects on its journey over the past five decades, it also keeps its eyes fixed firmly on the horizon. With the 2026 Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Olympics fast approaching, the need for support and investment in emerging athletes has never been greater.
The funds raised through this auction will go directly toward scholarships, equipment, training, travel expenses, and other vital resources that enable young sportspeople to excel. Many of these athletes would otherwise struggle to afford the competitive environments required to reach their potential.
In this way, the guitars of Ed Sheeran and Van Morrison are not just items to be admired—they are instruments of change, carrying the dreams of a new generation across the globe. Their contribution adds a melodic and emotional dimension to the legacy of the Mary Peters Trust, one that harmonises beautifully with the trust’s mission to inspire, empower, and uplift.
As the countdown to the Mary Peters Trust’s “Sport Inspires” festive lunch begins, excitement is growing not only for the event itself but also for the transformative impact it will have on countless young lives. Ed Sheeran and Van Morrison guitars to be auctioned are the crown jewels of a collection that symbolises generosity, creativity, and unwavering support for Northern Ireland’s future in sport.
With high-profile contributions, heartfelt messages, and a community-driven spirit, the auction promises to be more than just a fundraiser—it will be a celebration of possibility, a tribute to five decades of sporting success, and a powerful launchpad for the champions of tomorrow.