Shaun the Sheep flocks to Brighton for start of art trail

More than 40 large sculptures of the much-loved children’s character have been put on display across Brighton and Hove for the Shaun by the Sea art trail.

Dozens of smaller sculptures have also been placed in libraries and local schools from Portslade to Newhaven.

The exhibition, which officially starts today and lasts for eight weeks, aims to raise funds for hospice charity Martlets.

Council leader Bella Sankey has encouraged residents and visitors to get involved with the trail over the next eight weeks.

She said: “We’re giving a Baaa-righton welcome to Shaun and his friends.

“Martlets is a much loved and appreciated charity in Brighton and Hove and all the more so for this engaging art trail.

“I’m particularly pleased to see the trail has been extended more widely across the city to give more children access to the fun.

“I’d encourage our residents and visitors to spend these last beautiful days of summer finding Shauns and raising vital funds for a good cause.”

Teams from Martlets placed the sculptures throughout the city over Thursday evening and into yesterday morning, with crowds gathering as each Shaun was lowered into place.

Each sculpture is fixed to a concrete plinth, wearing in at almost one ton.

Those hoping to visit all the Shaun sculptures can track their progress using a special Shaun by the Sea app, which also offers rewards for visiting certain sculptures.

Tanya Hunt, director of income generation for Martlets, said: “Our trail of big and little Shauns covers the whole community Martlets serve, shining a light on the reach and impact of hospice care. 

“All of the team at Martlets owe a huge debt of thanks to our sponsors, to the incredibly talented artists, to our partners and to all the hard-working staff and volunteers who have made the trail happen. 

“All the money raised from Shaun by the Sea will enable Martlets to keep caring for people facing the toughest of times.”