A family-friendly art trail featuring an iconic character is set to hit the streets in 2024.

Fifty large sculptures of Shaun the Sheep will be placed around parks, river paths and other parts of Maidstone town centre in the Heart of Kent Hospice fundraiser.

After last year's success of Elmer's Big Heart of Kent Parade – which saw 82 highly-decorated elephants placed all over town and then auctioned off – organisers have announced a new art trail, Shaun in the Heart of Kent.

Heart of Kent Hospice is inviting companies to sponsor a sculpture of the famous sheep. The companies will then choose a design and artists will decorate them, ensuring each sheep is unique.

The Gallagher Group, One Maidstone and Kent Messenger have already signed up.

The sculptures are based on the famous animated character, created by Aardman, which has been nominated for two Adacemy Awards. They are partnering with Wild in Art for the second year, who are producers of public art events across the world.

Charlie Langhorne, managing director and co-founder Wild in Art, said: "I have no doubt that Shaun the Sheep will capture the imaginations of residents and visitors alike, while helping to raise vital funds for Heart of Kent Hospice."

After the trail has finished, the Shaun sculptures will be auctioned off to raise funds for the hospice.

Last year's Elmer auction raised £312,750 for the charity, which supports terminally-ill people and their families and carers.

Rachel Street, chief executive at the hospice, said: "The trail will be designed to offer a fun day out for families and friends of all ages and will also connect the local community to our wonderful hospice.

"In 2021, Elmer’s Big Heart of Kent Parade not only saw thousands of people take part in the trail but also raised vital funds for their local hospice. The event also contributed to an increase in referrals and awareness about the care and support we provide."

It was estimated that last year's parade had a total economic impact of more than £7m. More than 230,000 visitors followed the Elmer trail around town and organisers are hoping the next event will have the same success.

Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Derek Mortimer said: "We all saw the fantastic positive impact across Maidstone both for our residents, visitors and the economy from attracting people to the area which brought benefits to local businesses whilst also raising funds for the hospice."

Peter Lord, co-founder of Aardman, said: "Shaun has been entertaining fans and families for 15 years with his mischievous farmyard adventures and now he’s coming to Maidstone to bring fun and joy to the streets for residents and visitors to enjoy."

For more information about Shaun in the Heart of Kent, follow the trail on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @shaunheartkent