The Blossom Charity’s On Safari Trail makes return to Eye and expands to Harleston
A popular sculpture trail has expanded into another town this year, taking even more people for a walk on the wild side.
The Blossom Charity’s Go On Safari features 16 large animals and 27 mini creatures across both Eye and Harleston.
It is the sixth trail the organisation has put on and includes a rainbow-themed hippopotamus, a patchwork giraffe and an Ipswich Town supporting owl.
Clare Jackson, the charity’s fundraising manager, said it was great to finally have the sculptures in place.
“So much work goes on behind the scenes, with so many people coming together to make it happen,” she told the Diss Express.
“We have The Pink Trolley charity shop in Harleston and our offices in Eye, so that was why we decided to do the trail over both towns.
“We approached the town council, as well as some businesses in Harleston and everyone was so supportive. It is scary taking it to a new town, but the response has been phenomenal.”
The previous five trails, which have included pigs and sheep, have raised more than £162,000 for the charity, with the sculptures auctioned off at the end of the summer.
“It is one of our biggest fundraisers,” said Ms Jackson. “The community spirit that goes into our trails means so much to us and we love that it is a free activity for people to enjoy outdoors.
“I would like to thank all of the artists, sponsors and the public, who put so much into the trail. We could not do this without them.”
Trail maps are available from Dream On in Eye, The Pink Trolley in Harleston and participating shops along the route.
There is a colouring competition for children to take part in and a raffle to win one of the mini sculptures – Ryan, the Mini Eagle Owl. The pieces will be auctioned off at The Oaksmere Hotel on Wednesday, September 25.
Founded by Bridget McIntyre, the Blossom Charity runs a number of programmes to support people going through personal difficulties, or those facing hardship.
For more information on its services, go online to www.theblossomcharity.co.uk.