Help build the Leeds’s crest – out of Lego bricks

A total of 200,704 bricks have been shipped over to Leeds ready for what will be one of the biggest fundraising challenges ever hosted by someone in the historic civic role.

The mayor, Coun Judith Chapman, is calling on residents and businesses buy a variety of the Lego bricks, for a nominal fee, to help build the crest, which will eventually measure 3.5m by 3.5m.

The mammoth challenge will see the famous crest slowly come to life as it tours Leeds over next six months, giving people the chance to take part, before it finds a permanent home in the city.

All money raised will go to the mayor’s charity of the year, Specialist Autism Services - a cause close to Coun Chapman’s heart as her daughter Harriet, 36, was diagnosed with the condition three years ago.

It was Harriet - a massive Lego fan - who came up with the unique project, designing the crest’s mosaic herself and calculating how many bricks would be needed.

Coun Chapman said: “I think it’s absolutely fantastic. We couldn’t have done this without someone who builds Lego. I’m really very pleased that as Lord Mayor I’ll be leaving this as a legacy to the city at the end of my year.

“It’s a challenge but one which we’re going to enjoy.”

The Lego crest project will be launched and hosted the White Rose Shopping Centre from Monday to Friday, October 9, for shoppers to take part.

The project has been developed in conjunction with professional Lego building company Bright Bricks.

Mike Thomas, portfolio manager at Land Securities, said: “We’re very much looking forward to launching the mosaic at White Rose in order to raise vital funds for this fantastic charity initiative. We’re confident that shoppers at the centre will get involved in building the iconic Leeds crest, and with bricks costing from just £1, it’s a great way to support Specialist Autism Services, while also having fun with one of the most popular toys of all time.”

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How to get involved:

Four bricks can be bought for £1, of 16 bricks for £4.

Businesses, groups, organisations or well-wishers can also pay to have their name and logo stamped on the crest - either £256 for a 1,024-brick base plate, or £512 for a 2,048-brick plate.

To buy a brick over the phone, text LEGO42 plus the amount to 70070 - eg LEGO42 £1 or LEGO42 £256.

Any businesses or organisations interested in hosting all or part of the display during the challenge, to help sell the bricks, can contact the Lord Mayor’s Office on 0113 2474194.

All donations from the project will be given to the Lord Mayor’s chosen charity this year, Specialist Autism Services. Visit www.specialistautismservices.org.