Donation to benefit Lantern Youth Trust and the Fondazione Brunone Salvi
SAFFRON WALDEN, 14 May 2024—Larkwing Books today announced the resolution of its longstanding copyright dispute with SiQuill Studios regarding the unauthorised use of characters and imagery from the Elf and Orc books.
The matter has been settled amicably. As part of the agreement, SiQuill Studios has made a sizeable charitable donation, divided equally between The Lantern Youth Trust and the newly established Fondazione Brunone Salvi.
The Lantern Youth Trust, founded in 1984 and patronised by author Margaret Moore until her death in 1989, provides vital support to LGBTQ+ teenagers across the UK, offering crisis housing, mentorship programmes, arts grants, and mental health services. The donation will expand the Trust’s outreach initiatives and fund new creative writing bursaries in Moore’s name.
The Fondazione Brunone Salvi was established in 2024 to honour the late Italian actor Brunone Salvi, whose portrayal of Orc in the 1974 film L’Elfo e il Compagno Orco remains beloved by fans worldwide. The foundation supports individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Rome and the Lazio region, providing medical assistance, community outreach, and dignity-centred care.
Salvi corresponded with Margaret Moore for many years, and his death in 1987 deeply affected her. The creation of the foundation reflects Moore’s long-standing commitment to compassion and the welfare of vulnerable communities.
Statement from Larkwing Books CEO, Jamie Ferrante-Merrin
We are grateful to SiQuill Studios for their cooperation and for recognising the importance of supporting the communities closest to Margaret Moore’s legacy. The Lantern Youth Trust and the Fondazione Brunone Salvu embody the values she championed throughout her life: kindness, courage, and care for those who need it most.
The settlement concludes all legal proceedings. Larkwing Books extends its thanks to Alex Westwood of Silver, Starr & Westwood, who represented the company pro bono publico.
For further information please contact the Larkwing Books Communications Office.
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