Worcester's new elephant sculpture trail has sparked a conversation about the accessibility issues faced by the disabled community in the city on a daily basis.

We recently reported how Matthew Lancett, who is visually impaired, had raised concerns about the overhanging trunks on the sculptures.

Now Chris Luckham, Secretary of Worcester's Talking Newspaper, is calling for his previous position as a disability access officer for Worcester City Council to be reinstated over the issue.

He said: "This trouble with the elephants has highlighted just one of many hazards to blind and partially sighted people around the city.

"Addressing such issues, or preventing them in the first place, used to be part of the function of the disability access officer.

"That post was created at the time that the Disability Discrimination Act was enacted but was only maintained, with me in it, for about three years and then cut in 2009 as part of money-saving measures.

"It is so important that this role is reinstated so that we are able to make Worcester accessible for all. I have noticed that many shop awnings in the city are too low, some shops are not wide enough for wheelchairs to move around comfortably and the introduction of tables on the pavements outside cafes and restaurants have halved the size of pavements.

"It is not fair. Why should someone who can't walk, or see, or hear face these constant obstacles just because they have a disability. We should be doing all we can to make life easier for people, not harder."

A spokesman for the city council said they are in the process of reviewing its approach to equality and inclusion.

They said: “The City Council does not employ a disability access officer but is fully aware of its legal duties under the Equality Act and takes them very seriously.

"The Policy and Resources Committee earlier this year agreed that it was time to undertake a complete review of the council’s approach to equality, diversity and inclusion and this work is underway at present, with a new strategy to be considered by the committee later this year.”

St Richard's Hospice also said they are seeking feedback from members of the blind and visually impaired community so any concerns can be 'considered for future events'.

Tricia Cavell, fundraising director for the hospice, said: “We’re continuing to seek feedback from members of the blind and visually impaired communities, and local representative bodies, regarding our elephant trail and haven’t had any direct feedback of negative experiences so far.

“While these particular elephant sculptures have featured in many other trails both around the UK and internationally without concern, we recognise that there are always learnings which can be made and are passing these on to Wild in Art, who produce the sculptures and advise on plinth dimensions, so they can be considered for future events.

“If anyone has concerns about our charity art trail then we would ask them please to feedback to us direct. You can share your experience of Worcester’s Big Parade with us by contacting us on 01905 763963 or dropping us an email to hello@worcestersbigparade.co.uk.”