AN auction to help fund the build of a replica of the Mayflower ship has gone live.

Punk poet John Cooper Clarke helped launch the Harwich Mayflower Project event.

Seven lots, including a one-of-a-kind Harwich Mayflower ring designed by Stephen Einhorn, are available as part of the project’s latest fundraising scheme.

Project chairman Tom Daly said: “We are heartened at the fantastic support shown for the Harwich Mayflower Project at Monday’s event – by local people as well as by the artists who have donated work and other celebrity guests.”

Pictures and details of all the lots are can be viewed at harwichmayflower.com/auction.

Bids can be made on Twitter using hashtag #buildtheboat , stating the lot number and the amount of your bid, by phone to 07538 591388 or by e-mail to info@harwichmayflower.com.