Dartford’s Bear Hunt Trail, in partnership with ellenor, Dartford Borough Council and Wild in Art, is expected to attract more than 250,000 visitors before it wraps up on September 13.
The trail, inspired by the classic children’s story We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, features 31 large bear sculptures and 49 Bear Cubs designed by artists.
Sue Piper, director of income generation at ellenor, said: “Many people still believe hospice care is only about the final days of life, but that’s simply not the case.
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Just some of the bears from the trail (Image: Nick Johnson – The Imageworks)
“Every day we help babies, children and adults live as well as possible while supporting the families who care for them.
“We’re Going on a Bear Hunt gives us the chance to introduce thousands more people to ellenor in a new way.
“We hope families have a wonderful day out together, but we also hope they leave with a better understanding of what hospice care really is and the difference it makes to local families.”
The activity is perfect for families (Image: Nick Johnson – The Imageworks)
The trail is described as the charity’s largest-ever community project and doubles as a major awareness campaign about hospice care.
The bears will remain on display around Dartford until mid-September and selected bears will then be auctioned in October to raise funds for ellenor’s specialist hospice services.
Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Borough Council, said: “Today marks the start of a fantastic adventure across Dartford as our Bear Hunt officially begins.
“Inspired by the much-loved childhood classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, this wonderful trail brings together art, community spirit, and family fun.
The trail ends in September (Image: Nick Johnson – The Imageworks)
“I’m also delighted that the trail is helping to shine a spotlight on the incredible work of ellenor, whose vital services make such a difference to local families.”
The public event aims to challenge misconceptions about hospice care while offering a fun, family-friendly day out.
Visitors can download a dedicated Bear Hunt app or visit the official trail website for more information and to plan their route.
News Shopper is media partner of the event.
