GENEROUS helpers have saved The Martlets hospice thousands of pounds in Snowdog repair costs.

Boat builder Garth Wakeham, of Garth GRP, and repairs company Magicman stepped forward to fix dents, scratches and other damage to the giant models so they are looking as good as new for tonight's big charity auction.

The hospice, which is using the Snowdogs by the Sea public art trail to raise vital funds to care for terminally ill patients, has to foot the bill for any repair costs. But both businesses offered their services and materials free of charge, saving the hospice around £2,000.

Mr Wakeham, who fixes fibreglass yachts in Brighton Marina, rebuilt Dudley the Snowdog's broken back - which would have normally cost around £500.

The 65-year-old, who fell in love with Brighton during a tour around Europe and moved here from his native Australia in the 1970s, said: "I was happy to help old Dudley out after he had a bit of a hard life by St Peter's Church. I replaced the fibreglass in his back, so I opened him up, cleaned him up and put him back together so the artist could repaint the design. He was with me for about a week. I think the trail has been a great idea, particularly for the kids here."

Hardware store Dockerills, Dudley's original sponsor, had previously helped patch Dudley up when he sustained cuts and bruises due to vandalism during the trail.

Portslade-based Magicman, which fixes all kinds of hard surfaces, found a way of touching up Gizmo's chrome coat so his marks will disappear, saving The Martlets around £500. Staff also helped repair scratches, dents and chips, matching exact colours to other models including Horatio - The Bathing Beauty.

The company was only too happy to help as some of its staff had a personal connection with the charity.

Chief executive Mark Henderson said: "The trail has had such a positive impact on the city. We were keen to get involved in the project and delighted to offer our expertise to assist with repairs before the Snowdogs are auctioned off to raise money for a fantastic local charity."

A band of other artists were also reunited with damaged Snowdogs which needed a final paint and polish before going up for sale for a new owner.

Sarah Harvey, Martlets project manager, said she was grateful for everyone who donated their time and expertise free of charge to help the cause, adding: "We have been just overwhelmed by the support of our community and businesses. Together we have created such a successful Snowdogs by the Sea campaign and raised much need funds for the hospice."

The Argus is the official media partner for the Wild in Art project in aid of The Martlets hospice.