A GARDEN centre whose roots in the county date back to the 1800s is the latest business to back a summer art trail through Worcester.

Webbs Garden Centres is to sponsor an elephant for Worcester’s Big Parade – one of around 65 sculptures, large and small, which will go on display in the city, with each large elephant then auctioned to raise funds for St Richard’s Hospice.  

With the event opening on July 12 for eight weeks, the elephants have already made their arrival locally and will shortly be making their way to artists ready to be painted.

 Edward Webb, owner of Webbs Garden Centres, and great-great-grandson of the founder, said: “As a family business, which is all about an appreciation of nature and the outdoors, we were really excited to hear about Worcester’s second public art trail encouraging local families to get out and about on foot this summer.

“Having helped people make the most of their homes and gardens in lockdown, we’re proud to be part of an event that will get us all exploring again and for a brilliant cause too.  We can’t wait to walk the trail and see our Webbs elephant in pride of place.”

 Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager at St Richard’s, said: “We’re thrilled to have Webbs on board as a sponsor and it’s wonderful that the aims of the parade, and charity beneficiary, strike a chord with the team.

 “We also now know which design Webbs have chosen and, although we can’t say much more until the sculptures go on display, it’s going to be an ele-fantastic addition to the herd!”

 Worcester’s Big Parade is a Wild in Art event being brought to the city by St Richard’s Hospice. 

It is supported by partners Crowngate, Worcester City Council, Worcester Business Improvement District (BID), DRPG, West Midland Safari Park the Worcester News and BBC Hereford & Worcester.

You can follow Worcester’s Big Parade at www.facebook.com/WorcestersBigParade, www.twitter.com/WorcsBigParade and www.Instagram.com/WorcsBigParade