The sculpture marks the first public appearance of ellenor’s forthcoming “Dartford We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” art trail, a large-scale public art project that will take over Dartford from July to September 2026. Inspired by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s much loved children’s book, the trail will see 30 Big Bears and 30 Bear Cubs, each individually decorated by local artists, schools, and community groups, installed across the borough - transforming Dartford into a storybook of colour, imagination and community pride.

The project is led by ellenor, Dartford’s local hospice charity supporting families across North Kent and Bexley, in partnership with Dartford Borough Council and Wild in Art, creators of public sculpture trails seen in cities worldwide. Key supporters include Bluewater Shopping Centre, Walker Books, and Lupus Films, custodians of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’s legacy, helping ensure each bear captures a little of the story’s original warmth and wonder.

But beyond the playfulness lies a deeper purpose: to raise vital funds and greater understanding of the care ellenor provides - not just in its hospice, but in homes, hospitals, and communities where support is needed most.

“This is more than just an art trail, it is a true community project that brings together creativity, connection and care in equal measures. It is a celebration of the area and the incredible services ellenor provides. we hope this will leave a legacy that remains long after the trail is finished” says Georgie Packer, Project Manager for ellenor’s Dartford We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Art Trail.

Images from the bear’s maiden voyage - captured by TheImageworks, the trail’s photography partner offer a playful glimpse of what’s to come. The trail is being made possible thanks to the support of a growing group of partners including Dartford Borough Council, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Fastrack, Pillory Barn, Pentagon Transport and others - each helping to bring this ambitious community project to life. More sponsors are expected to join as excitement builds ahead of 2026.

ellenor is now extending an open invitation to the wider community:

For businesses, it’s an opportunity to sponsor one of the trail’s distinctive sculptures and become part of this high-profile, public-facing partnership. All partners and sponsors are featured on the ellenor website, with the growing list updated regularly.

For schools and community groups: a chance to contribute creatively and help shape the trail’s visual language and

For artists, an early call to register their interest ahead of the official design submission process launching this September.

Registrations are now open at dartfordbearhunt.co.uk, where you can also find further details on confirmed partners and how to get involved.