Blackpool’s first large-scale public art trail has hit another major milestone as Shared Services Connected Ltd (SSCL) becomes an official supporter, helping to deliver the trail’s volunteer Trailmaker programme.

Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool will see at least 30 large sculptures based on author David McKee’s famous patchwork elephant placed in key locations around the town. Each one will be individually painted by artists and illustrators to create a truly unique herd.

The trail, which is being organised by Brian House Children’s Hospice, will be supported by a team of volunteers, or Trailmakers, who will help on the trail itself as well as in a dedicated Elmer shop and many other parts of the event.

As an official supporter, SSCL - a critical business support service for the largest Government departments - will sponsor the volunteer programme - something that aligns closely with the company's culture and social value. SSCL Blackpool are also really excited to be involved.

Ruth Duffy, SSCL Government Head of Accounts and P2P said: “For our local colleagues in SSCL Blackpool, being the sponsor of the volunteer programme of Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool is an absolutely fantastic opportunity to get involved, not only with a local charity that is very close to a lot of our hearts, but also with our local schools and communities.

“We know this art trail will bring a lot of the things we care about together, in line with our social value agenda at work considering our people, planet and place.

“We are really fortunate that SSCL gives all employees three days paid annual leave to volunteer, so we’re really keen to help out as much as we can, getting our families and friends involved too, as well as providing this key sponsorship for the trail.”

The trail will run for eight weeks in spring 2024, followed by a farewell weekend before all large Elmer sculptures are sold at auction to raise money for Brian House.

Head of Fundraising, Linzi Warburton, said: “Our Volunteer Trailmakers programme is an important part of Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool, helping us to showcase our town while supporting our work.

“By sponsoring our volunteer programme, SSCL is helping people in our community to give something back in a truly unique way while making new friends, gain new experiences and enjoy a sense of purpose whilst having fun.

“We are incredibly grateful to SSCL for showing a trunk-load of support for our brand new event in Blackpool. With their help throughout the trail, we are able to provide our expert care to our area’s most fragile children.”

For more information about Elmer’s Big Parade Blackpool and how your businesses can get involved, check out our sponsors page

To enquire about becoming a sponsor, click here