A SCULPTURE depicting a dog created using more than 3,800 aluminium butterflies has raised thousands of pounds for charity.

Wimborne-based Caroline Parrott, who specialises in aluminium jewellery and sculpture at the historic Walford Mill, created the canine-inspired piece for the Julia’s House Big Dog Art Trail.

Named Papillon, the butterflies were chosen as a symbol of hope and change for children’s hospices.

Caroline hand cut, decorated and fixed 3,864 aluminium butterflies to Papillon’s body, which stands more than two metres high.

The piece took over a year to complete in the back garden of her house while Caroline was still occupied with regular studio work.

But her efforts were rewarded when Papillon was voted best in the show at the Julia’s House Big Dog Art Trail and raised £5,400 for the charity when auctioned at the grand finale.

Caroline Parrott with Papillon

When laid out flat, Caroline says the butterflies used would take up the same length as twenty-six Boeing 747s parked nose to tail.

“I set myself a big creative goal; it took blood, sweat and tears and I am immensely proud of Papillon,” she said.

In her 17 years in residence at Walford Mill Crafts, Caroline’s work has raised more than £62,000 for charity.

Visitors will still be able to see butterflies among many other pieces on display in her workshop – The Nutty Parrott Studio – at the charity-run arts and crafts complex, which offers free entry to the public from 10am to 5pm, Wednesday to Sunday.