Elmer is coming to Blackpool!

Elmer, the much-loved patchwork elephant is being brought to Blackpool in a major event that will boost tourism and economy in the town, while raising vital funds for its children’s hospice.

Brian House, the Fylde coast’s only children’s hospice, has announced Blackpool’s first major public art trail in partnership with Wild in Art and Anderson Press. It will see 30 large Elmer sculptures inspired by David McKee’s beloved children’s books, each uniquely decorated by established and up and coming artists, creating a parade through the town that will be enjoyed by visitors and locals for eight weeks in Spring 2024.

The sculptures, which will be sponsored by businesses and organisations, will be placed around key landmarks, streets, and open spaces in across Blackpool, enjoyed by visitors who will be encouraged to visit as many as possible.

The large sculptures will be joined by a herd of mini-Elmers which will be decorated by the Fylde coast’s creative children and young people through schools, colleges and youth organisations alongside a dedicate learning programme and displayed inside some of the town’s tourist, cultural and leisure locations.

Together, the trail – Elmer’s Big Blackpool Parade – will make for one unforgettable jumbo event, celebrating the differences that make up our communities, bringing people into Blackpool and raising money for Brian House.

Linzi Warburton, Head of Fundraising at Brian House unveiled Elmer’s arrival in Blackpool at Blackpool Football Club with corporate supporters and local dignitaries.

She said: “We have kept this a secret for a long time and now we are so excited to share this news with everyone.

“Elmer is a much-loved character and represents kindness, differences, acceptance, and friendship. There’s no other beloved character like him which celebrates the differences that make our children so very special.

“Elmer’s Big Blackpool Parade is the largest event we have ever organised, and we are delighted to be partnering with Wild in Art and Andersen Press with their expertise and advice.

“We hope people from Blackpool and beyond are as excited as we are and join us in celebrating this incredible character and how he represents the children we are privileged to care for. Not only will this art trail do great things for our community, but it will raise vital funds and awareness for our incredible children’s hospice which is a lifeline for local families.”