The quiet streets of Worcester came alive briefly yesterday as the city received a very special, jumbo delivery.

Sixty-five fibreglass elephant sculptures, destined for Worcester’s Big Parade, arrived in the city. Naked for now, the herd will be transformed with dazzling designs before welcoming residents and visitors back into the city this summer.

The eight-week long art trail will see elephants parade through the city’s streets, open spaces and shopping areas, marching in on 12 July and leaving again on 5 September.

Artists will decorate the large sculptures, while schools and community groups will cover the calves in imaginative designs this spring

Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager for St Richard’s Hospice, said: “It is so exciting to see all our lovely sculptures. They looked so impressive, even all wrapped up, and their arrival signals the start of something really special that the whole city can look forward to this summer.

“Having now shortlisted 100 artist designs, from which the final 30 will be selected, we know the artwork on display will do Worcester proud. We can’t wait to see the full herd brought to life through artist, schools and community groups’ designs later in the spring.”

While all elephant calves have now been adopted by local schools and community groups, a few large elephant sponsorships remain. To get involved call 01905 763963 and ask for Sara Matthews, email smatthews@strichards.org.uk or worcestersbigparade.co.uk/get-involved/

You can follow Worcester’s Big Parade at www.facebook.com/WorcestersBigParade www.twitter.com/WorcsBigParade and www.Instagram.com/WorcsBigParade

Worcester’s Big Parade is supported by partners Crowngate, Worcester City Council, Worcester Business Improvement District (BID), the Worcester News and BBC Hereford & Worcester.