CITY council leader Marc Bayliss has revealed his hope Worcester’s second public art trail will get people out exploring again next summer in a 400th anniversary year for the city.
Coun Bayliss was speaking about Worcester’s Big Parade – an eight-week trail of elephant sculptures set to add a splash of colour to the city’s streets and public spaces.
Worcester City Council is a major partner in the event, taking place from July 12 to September 5 and will also sponsor one of around 30 large elephant sculptures.
Each sculpture will feature a dazzling design and will be auctioned after the trail to raise money for the free care St Richard’s Hospice provides to local patients and their loved ones across the county.
Coun Bayliss said: “I’m sure everyone remembers the excitement the giraffes brought to Worcester two years ago as thousands followed the trail around our wonderful city.
“A second parade of elephants is sure to bring local residents and tourists out and bring much-needed smiles after a challenging year for us all.
“The City Council is proud to support St Richard’s Hospice once again – a charity which has been there for so many in the local community when they’re most in need.”
Next May will see the 400th Mayor of Worcester’s election following the appointment of the 399th Mayor, Coun Jo Hodges, earlier this year.
Speaking about the momentous year ahead, Coun Hodges said: “2021 will see a whole range of events and activities deigned to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the city and showcase what’s great about Worcester – and the elephant trail is the perfect addition.
“”I look forward to seeing these beautiful structures gracing our city streets and open spaces.”
Children from schools across the county are also getting involved in the art trail – with many painting smaller, elephant calf sculptures to go on display during the event.
Around 35 baby elephants will wind through local shops and Crowngate Shopping Centre in Worcester, creating a Mini Parade of children’s artwork. After the trail comes to a close, each elephant will be returned to the school which decorated them as a lasting memory of the project.
Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager for St Richard’s Hospice, said: “Worcester’s Big Parade is very much about celebrating our city so we’re delighted the City Council has got on board.
“We know our giraffe parade two years ago not only gained support from the local community but also attracted visitors from far and wide and raised Worcester’s profile. We can’t wait to see the city buzzing once again.”
Call 01905 763963 and ask for Sara Matthews, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.worcestersbigparade.co.uk/get-involved for more.
Log on to www.facebook.com/WorcestersBigParade www.twitter.com/WorcsBigParade and www.twitter.com/WorcsBigParade for more updates.
