A NOMADIC Buddhist monk has held an auction of artwork in order to raise funds to help buy Brighton Pier.
The pier, which has been up for sale since June 2011, has an estimated value of at least £25m.
The monk, Kelsang Pawo, wants to buy the famous structure and turn it into a symbol of worldwide hope and love.
He has launched The Gesar Foundation Palace Pier project which began with the art auction, where he hoped to raise £500,000.
He said that Brighton Pier could become the first landmark structure in the world to be run by a charity for the benefit of local history, culture, community and children.
English-born Kelsang Pawo is determined to succeed, and said: "I remember the saying of Gandhi - first people laugh, then they ridicule and then you win."
The auction, which includes a signed portrait by model Kate Moss and work by artists Gilbert and George, took place last Saturday (10 March) at The Grand Hotel in Brighton.
The Gesar Foundation is currently applying for charitable status.
Article courtesy of Love Brighton, the free weekly paper for Brighton and Hove.
