A POSSE of Peter Rabbit sculptures will hop into Worcester next summer for the fourth public art trail in aid of St Richard’s Hospice.
Individually-decorated Peter Rabbit sculptures will line streets and open spaces for eight weeks in 2027, creating Peter Rabbit in the Warrens of Worcester.
The much-loved character was first imagined by Beatrix Potter in 1893, when she sent a picture letter to her former governess’ son Noel, which tells the story of a mischievous rabbit called Peter. Since then, The Tale of Peter Rabbit (published by Frederick Warne & Co. in 1902) has never been out of print and in 2027 will celebrate 125 years since its first publication.
This new Wild in Art event is the follow-up to three previous hospice art trails, which saw giraffe, elephant and penguin sculptures capture hearts in 2018, 2021 and 2024. Combined, the events raised £1.2 million after costs for the care of local patients and families.
Thirty-five large Peter Rabbit sculptures will form the free art trail – running from Monday July 12 to Sunday September 5 2027.
The sculptures will be sponsored by businesses and brought to life with designs created by artists from Worcestershire and beyond.
Sara Matthews, who’s leading the project for St Richard’s, said: “We can’t wait to see our fantastic fluffle of rabbits standing among Worcester’s iconic landmarks in summer 2027.
“Residents will remember how the city felt when we were joined giraffes, elephants and a happy huddle of penguins. We’re excited to recreate that magic all over again, bringing art trail goers into the city in their droves.
“We often get asked how we choose each sculpture and this was quite easy in a year which will mark the 125th anniversary of the first publication of Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit. Peter Rabbit is one of the most loveable characters in the world, charming generations with his adventurous spirit, curiosity, and just the right amount of mischief. His stories have shaped childhoods, teaching lessons about courage, kindness, and resilience – even in the face of loss.”
The large sculptures will be joined by another 40 smaller Peter Rabbit sculptures which will be decorated by students and community groups.
At the end of the trail, the large sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for the hospice’s care across Worcestershire.
Visit www.waddleofworcester.co.uk for more details.
