After directing tourists and locals through the town centre for many years, the pigeons from the old pedestrian signage will be auctioned off to raise money for the three mayor’s charities.

Friday, June 13 is the final day for the public to submit bids for the pigeons. The mayor will be accepting bids for the 11 pigeons, with a minimum bid starting at £20 per pigeon.

Hester’s Way Neighbourhood Project, Cheltenham Animal Shelter and Victim Support will all benefit as the auction is expected to see interest from locals wanting a piece of Cheltenham’s history.

The old pedestrian signage will make way for a new signage project which will be introduced to the town over the coming weeks. The new ‘wayfinding’ project will have finger-post signage and simple maps with clear graphics to help give clearer direction to those unfamiliar with the town. As well as showing pedestrian routes, the mapping will also identify bus and strategic cycle routes.

Wendy Flynn, mayor of Cheltenham, said: “Rather than being locked away or melted down, the public now have an opportunity to buy a piece of Cheltenham’s history as well as supporting the three mayor’s charities.”

Bids will be received through the mayor’s email address: Mayor@cheltenham.gov.uk or through post to the mayor’s PA: Jennie Ingram, Cheltenham Borough Council, PO Box 12, Municipal Offices, GL50 1PP.