Sheffield artist's celebrated characters help raise hospital charity cash

Now pooches Tony and Frank are helping him to raise thousands of pounds for a hospital arts programme. Mr McKee has designed a series of Christmas Cards for Artfelt, Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity’s arts programme, of which he is a patron. The festive designs depict Tony and Frank getting up to festive mischief, from scoffing all the Advent chocolates on December 1st to staying up too late on Christmas Eve. They will be sold in packs of eight for £4, with all proceeds going to Artfelt. Artfelt transforms Sheffield Children’s Hospital by brightening the walls with artwork to provide entertainment and distraction. It also puts on twice-weekly art workshops to help relax children at difficult times, such as before surgery or during long stays. Cat Powell, Artfelt manager, said: “Pete has done it again with these fantastic designs, which we hope will raise a massive amount for Artfelt. We are so proud to have him on board as a much valued Artfelt patron, and these cards are a highlight of the year as we look forward to seeing what he will create.” Mr McKee added: “After an amazing response to last year’s Crimbo cards, Frank and Tony insisted on being the stars of the show again this year. They are both over the moon to feature on this year’s designs and hope to raise even more money than last time. Frank is looking forward to a nice relaxing Crimbo with no mishaps but that is unlikely to happen with Tony constantly winding him up. Have a woofing good Crimbo from me, Frank and Tony.” Last year Mr McKee's charity cards raked in £13,000 for Artfelt. This year the charity hope to raise even more, with the cards now ready to buy from outlets including Matalan in Heeley, Starbucks and Wilko branches across Sheffield. They are also available from The Children’s Hospital Charity website and Mr McKee's A Month of Sunday’s gallery on Sharrow Vale Road.