BBC Online - Friday 15th September, 2000

Stars Sketch To Save Squirrels

Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Michael Caine and Sir Elton John are among a number of stars to take part in a drawing campaign in aid of the endangered red squirrel.

Over 200 stars contributed to the "scribble a squirrel" initiative to support wildlife campaigners who say the animal could become extinct in England 10 years.

The sketches will be auctioned on the internet from Saturday to raise money for the North East Wildlife Trust and the Calvert Trust as part of Red Squirrel Week. The drawings display a range of artistic talent.

Some, such as Sir Michael's, are rough and ready line drawings. Others, such as Sir Paul's picture, demonstrate a familiarity with the tools of the art.

"This is the best I can do, good job I'm an actor," Sir Michael scrawled on his work.

Other stars to have taken part include Phil Collins, Barry Manilow, Sir Norman Wisdom, Richard E Grant, the Duchess of York and Rolf Harris.

The auction will run for two weeks on internet auction website QXL.

Pretty in Pink: By Sir Paul McCartney

Blue Squirrel with glasses: By a bespectacled Sir Elton John

Sticking to his day job: Sir Michael Caine's offering.