A hospice is looking for its very own Trailmakers to help bring Maidstone alive during Elmer’s Big Heart of Kent Parade this summer.

The free public art trail featuring one of the world's most famous children's book characters will see 51 uniquely designed elephant sculptures scattered around the town, its river path, countryside and parks.

The event, which will raise money for Heart of Kent Hospice in Aylesford, will run from June 19 to August 22.

The hospice is looking for sociable and enthusiastic volunteers over the age of 18 to cover a variety of shifts from 10am to 1pm, or 1pm to 4pm during the week and weekends.

Elmer Trailmakers will be stationed at different locations along the trail and at two town centre Elmer shops to engage with visitors, provide information and directions, and to represent Heart of Kent Hospice.

Volunteers are also needed to drive the roving Elmer Armstrong sculpture around in the branded Raptor, as well as driver mates who can support the logistics of visiting schools, companies and local events.

Erica Snow, Elmer’s Big of Kent Parade Project Manager, said: “Over the past seven months Heart of Kent Hospice has been working behind the scenes with its official partners to plan how the nine-week trail can go ahead in a Covid-secure way.

“Our volunteers are essential in the smooth running of the parade, so if you are looking for the opportunity to develop interpersonal skills, meet new people and give something back to the community then we would love to hear from you.

"Volunteers will receive a limited edition Trailmaker t-shirt to wear on their shifts and keep as a memento.”

Each large Elmer sculpture has been lovingly designed by local and national artists and are sponsored by a local business or organisation.

Visitors will also discover Elmer’s Learning Herd, made up of 30 small Elmer sculptures, designed and painted by local schools and youth organisations from Maidstone and the surrounding areas.

Plus, one special Elmer that has been designed especially for Heart of Kent Hospice.

For more information on the roles and shifts available, click here or email elmer@hokh.co.uk to register your interest.

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