AS World Cup mania grips the country and the globe – footy fans in Dorset and beyond are being offered the chance to score a truly unique piece of memorabilia.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue is giving fans and collectors the chance to own a pair of hand-painted Lionel Messi boots, while helping to transform the lives of vulnerable animals.

The Lenovo ‘World Cup Legends’ custom hand-painted Adidas football boots were created by renowned artist Melonkicks (Martín Redondo González).

The one-of-a-kind boots were produced as part of Lenovo’s exclusive ‘World Cup Legends’ campaign, and are the only pair featuring arentina star Messi.

In total, just 16 unique pairs were created worldwide, each celebrating a different football icon.

The online auction will run until the start of the World Cup Final on Sunday, July 19, with all proceeds helping Margaret Green Animal Rescue continue its work caring for animals in need across Dorset and Devon.

The charity rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals that have become homeless through changes in their owners’ circumstances, as well as those who have experienced neglect, mistreatment or abandonment.

Donations raised through the auction will help provide essential veterinary treatment, food, shelter and specialist care while animals wait to find their loving new homes.

Joanna Tiffin, chief executive, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for football fans to own a truly unique piece of memorabilia, while supporting rescue animals in need.

“Every bid will help provide the vital care and love that our rescue animals deserve, as they begin their journey towards a brighter future. We hope football supporters and collectors alike will get behind this exciting auction and help us raise as much as possible.”

To find out more and place a bid on the boots, visit galabid.com/mgar-worldcup2026.

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