Lady Penelope on auction to raise funds for Alzheimer's Society

A fan-made replica of Lady Penelope from Thunderbirds has been auctioned off on eBay to raise money for Alzheimer's Society.

The model, which is made of resin and stands at 19 inches tall, was donated by a fan to Jamie Anderson, the son of the original creator Gerry Anderson. The replica has a moving mechanical mouth, the same teeth as the original puppet that appeared on UK TV screens in 1965 and optic eyes. It also wears a blue satin dress with matching blue shoes, a white feather boa and even dons real human hair.

Jamie Anderson said:"In 2011, my father was diagnosed with mixed dementia. We had known there was something going on for a long time, but to get the actual diagnosis changed his and my mother's lives. Sadly dad passed away from complications related to his dementia on Boxing Day 2012. Before he died he fulfilled his ambition of raising awareness of dementia and funds for Alzheimer's Society who do a tremendous job supporting people living with the condition and their families."

The online auction opened on August 7th and it is hoped that thousands of pounds could potentially be generated for the charity.

Sabrina Sallis, regional fundraising manager for Alzheimer's Society, added that in its peak, the TV show was broadcasting in 66 countries, so it will be a real treat to find out where Penelope ends up. Fans all over the world will be able to place their bids, with all proceedings going to the charity. The money will be going towards supporting people to live well with the condition and to fund further research.

The Alzheimer's Society estimates that around one in three people over 65 will develop dementia in the UK.

Find out more about Alzheimer's disease care at Barchester homes.