Elmer art trail attracts stampede of visitors

Blackpool's first public art trail featuring a herd of patchwork elephants has sparked Elmer fever in the resort.

Elmer's Big Parade Blackpool was inspired by author David McKee's much-loved children's character.

It features a stampede of more than 70 eye-catching designs, with more than 30 mini ones created by local school children.

The artworks are set to raise vital funds for Brian House Children's Hospice.

The trail is a partnership between Brian House in Bispham, Wild in Art, and Andersen Press.

There are 38 large Elmer sculptures, many of them at Blackpool's best-known landmarks such as Blackpool Tower.

They have been created by artists, and the smaller ones crafted by schools, youth groups and youngsters from Brian House, based in Bispham

Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, the Illuminations' creative curator, is among the artists involved with his Elmer Eleganza.

Artist Natalie Ratcliffe, who is behind the Mirrorball Elmer, said it was an honour to be part of the art trail, especially in her home town.

"It is great to be part of something that celebrates Trinity Hospice and Brian House.

"It is a cause so special to our hearts and also to see how excited the whole town is getting about the trail."

The 34-year-old explained why she went for a mirrorball design.

"Blackpool is known for its bright lights and the Tower ballroom, and I wanted to represent the heart that features on the Tower.

"It feels like the Tower is the pinnacle of Blackpool."

VisitBlackpool said it was "wonderful" to see thousands of people enjoying the parade and unlocking all the special rewards on the Elmer art trail app.

"The art trail has got families and friends out together, exploring areas they may not have been to before and appreciating all the individual sculptures, each lovingly designed by an upcoming or established artist."

Linzi Warburton, head of fundraising at Brian House, said Elmer was the obvious choice for an art trail in Blackpool because of its message of inclusivity, friendship and acceptance.

Elmer's Big Blackpool Parade is on until 9 June, before the larger Elmers will be auctioned off.

They are expected to raise more than £150,000 for the children's hospice - with the smaller ones returning to their respective schools.

Ms Warburton said the auction will raise much-needed funds for the charity, which provides respite, palliative and end-of-life care for children with life-limiting conditions.

"Brian House costs over £1.3m a year to run and we get about £200,000 from the government, which is unfortunately going to reduce over the next few years," she added.

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