17th July 2018

Countdown to city giraffe safari

The hospice behind the Worcester Stands Tall initiative is encouraging people to sign up to its Safari Walk this Sunday.

St Richard’s Hospice is organising the walk as part of the 10 week long sculpture trail – which was launched on Monday 9 July – which showcases 30 giant decorated giraffes and 27 calves.

The trail is raising money for the hospice’s Build 2020 Appeal to expand and redevelop its building in Worcester – allowing it to care for more patients and their loved ones in the future.

The Safari Walk will take place on Sunday 22 July.  Those taking part can choose between the 3 mile or 6 mile walk; the full safari will take in 30 of the giraffe sculptures whilst the 3 mile walk will visit 15.

Both walks – the first wave starts at 10am and the second at 10.30am – will start from Worcester Racecourse and will involve a warm up with a team from sponsors David Lloyd Clubs.  Giraffe goodies – including a bespoke Worcester Stands Tall bag and giraffe ears at the outset followed by an activity book, stationery and confectionary along the route – will be available and participants are encouraged to dress up as their favourite wild animal.

Bookings can be made by visiting www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/safari-walk-tickets and cost £15 per adult and £10 per child.

John Bawden, Chairman of Governors at St Richard’s Hospice will be taking part on the day, along with his wife Carol and his grandchildren, Bella, aged 8 and Xander, aged 6.

John, who has already raised £500 in sponsorship money, said : “This is a fabulous initiative that not only offers a fun and family friendly way to start the summer holidays but will also, ultimately, help raise the much needed funds we need to expand our hospice.  We are all looking forward to seeing the giraffes along the trail and learning about these wonderful animals that have arrived in the city!”

Sara Matthews, Project Manager for Worcester Stands Tall, said: “Our Safari Walk is an excellent way for both visitors to the city as well as residents to really get involved with the art trail.  Both walks will offer people the opportunity to make their way around these fabulous pieces of art and spend time marveling at the creativity of each design.  Book today and we will look forward to welcoming you on Sunday!”

The total cost for expanding and redeveloping the existing building in Wildwood Drive, Worcester, is £5.3m.

Worcester Stands Tall is supported by presenting partners Worcestershire Ambassadors and Crowngate Shopping Centre, education partner West Midland Safari Park and media partners Free Radio and Worcester News.

Find out more about Worcester Stands Tall by visiting worcesterstandstall.co.uk

Follow the trail on Facebook @WorcesterStandsTall, Twitter @WorcStandsTall and Instagram @worcesterstands